In the words of Whitehead, “ideas die so that you don’t have to.” The statement highlights the importance of self-criticism in the process of thinking and decision making. Self-criticism, or neuroticism, plays a crucial role in human evolution as it allows individuals to simulate the world and plan their actions in it. However, when self-criticism becomes excessive, it can contribute to a decline in well-being and unnecessary suffering.
Jordan Peterson, a well-known psychologist, elaborates on the concept of thinking and the importance of self-criticism in his lectures. He states that thinking is a process of simulating the world and planning one’s actions, and that it is through this process that we can avoid “stupid things” and the consequences that come with them. He also emphasizes the importance of having an internal dialogue between different views of the world, and the need for conflict and negotiation in the process of thinking.
Furthermore, Peterson stresses the importance of talking and listening in the process of thinking. He states that “people need to think. Otherwise they wander blindly into pits.” Talking and listening to others allows individuals to test their thoughts and ideas, and to collaborate and negotiate with others in order to arrive at a more accurate and complete understanding of the world.
The statement “ideas die so that you don’t have to” highlights the importance of self-criticism in the process of thinking and decision making. It is through self-criticism and the process of simulating the world and planning our actions that we can avoid unnecessary suffering and lead a fulfilling life. Additionally, the act of talking and listening to others is crucial in the process of thinking and allows individuals to arrive at a more accurate and complete understanding of the world.
In the year 1066, the Battle of Hastings was fought between the Norman-French army led by William, Duke of Normandy and the Anglo-Saxon army led by King Harold Godwinson. The battle was fierce and both sides suffered heavy casualties. However, in the end, the Normans emerged victorious and William was crowned King of England.
The idea behind the Battle of Hastings was that both sides had a different vision for the future of England. Harold Godwinson saw a future where the Anglo-Saxon culture and traditions would continue to thrive, while William saw a future where the Normans would bring their own culture and traditions to England. Both sides believed that their ideas were necessary for the survival and prosperity of the people.
As the battle raged on, both sides suffered heavy losses. Harold Godwinson himself was killed in the battle, and many of his soldiers died alongside him. However, William’s army was also decimated, with many of his most trusted commanders losing their lives.
Despite the heavy casualties, William’s ideas ultimately prevailed and he became king of England. However, it was not without a cost. Many lives were lost in the pursuit of this idea and the Norman conquest forever changed the face of England.
This story reflects the idea that ideas die so that you don’t have to. Both Harold and William had strong visions for the future of England and were willing to fight for them. However, only one idea could prevail and many lives were lost in the process. It is a reminder that the pursuit of our ideas can come at a great cost, and it is important to consider the consequences before acting on them.