David McF wrote:
<<As you pointed out, it is possible to be rational without being open-minded. I'm not sure how you can be open-minded without being rational. What is it about a faith that can be systematically and constructively criticized?>>
Well, it's pragmatic value, for one. Cognitive psychology is based on the model that beliefs direct behavior. By cataloguing a person's beliefs one can attempt to adjust them, eliminating ones that cause undesired behavior. As an example, here are some faith-based positions widely held to be useful:
There are many more. Perhaps David R., who just completed the final Pursuit of Excellence course (yes, if you snoozed, you lost -- they are shutting their doors after 20 years of not being con artists), would like to add something?
Richard Brodie richard@brodietech.com http://www.brodietech.com/rbrodie/
Author, "Virus of the Mind: The New Science of the Meme"
http://www.brodietech.com/rbrodie/votm.htm
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