Self-deception

[ciphergoth]

Is self-deception always bad? Are there any beliefs so dear to you that, in a world where they weren't true, you would prefer to go on believing them?

Update: very interesting answers so far, I hope I get to hear from lots more of you!

Comments

[alexmc.livejournal.com]

The main counterexample I was going to mention is one about confidence. Many people struggle with self confidence. (Even quite successful people do).

The trick to self confidence is to pretend that you have it. Eventually this self deception will turn out to become real confidence.

(This is related to artemis' comments about CBT I suppose)


> Are there any beliefs so dear to you that, in a world where they weren't true, you would prefer to go on believing them?

I used to belive that white lies were always bad. Now I am more flexible.

As for beliefs.... I am fairly skeptical anyway and dont really have many beliefs - just working assumptions.

I believe that I am a good person.