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

[the-magician.livejournal.com]

In my case I am looking at CBT because my emotional reaction to things is to buy stuff and acquire stuff to the point where I'm nearly buried by clothing, old computers, bits of HiFi, CDs, guitars etc.

CBT may allow me to find why I give items such an emotional value and allow me to face the world better.

Changing the world won't fix that I believe.

[ludy]

O i'm not saying CBT is a bad thing - just that sometimes it can be done badly. I know a lot of people find it very helpful - which makes it a good thing. I hope it helps you.
But i don't think that stops it from being a kind of chosen self-deception.