Post #2: Fewest Assumptions

Fewest Assumptions

By nature, we all follow Occam’s razor, choosing the solution with the fewest assumptions and simplest explanation.  But how many assumptions do we really need?  If we don’t make enough, we can’t even say we exist; too many, and the truth might be assumed away.

For example, let’s say we live in the matrix.  One of the assumptions we must decide on is whether our experiences are real or imagined: are we brains in bodies or in vats?  Although it seems important, this problem can be easily dismissed.  If we assumed our experiences were not authentic, then there are no logical conclusions we can make without adding supplementary assumptions.  Therefore, accepting this as reality is Occam’s razor at work.  (Here is a similar explanation, but I felt it dealt too much with semantics: http://thecogito.wordpress.com/2009/11/20/brain-in-vat/)

I started to write a lot more, but ran off-topic, so I’ll just post the rest of it in a separate blog post.

ThemartiaN

Tags: Assumption, Atheism, Matrix, Occam, Philosophy, Razor Occam, Religion

Post #1: Masks

I had been meaning to start posting since last year, but never got around to it.  I read so many blog posts on how to start a blog, what to write, how long it should be, etc.  Most of this seemed useless, since I hadn’t already started writing, but I knew what I wanted to write about.  The one thing that seemed most important, was also something I did not have: a purpose.

Most of these how-to guides said to give my purpose for writing in the first blog post, and introduce myself to build a connection with the audience.  This was something I really did not want to do.

I just wanted to write… I did not have a purpose.

I did not want to introduce myself either, but rather present my ideas.

Last month, a friend gave me the inspiration I needed.  She talked about masks, and how everyone wears them, whether they like it or not.  These masks are how others perceive you.  You may have only two or three, or you may have ten, but these masks are what define you in the eyes of others.

This idea of masks helped me find my purpose for creating this blog: I wish to create another mask.  I want to mask against the biases that others may have or develop.  Hopefully, you understand.  Maybe you think I am weak, shy, assumptive, or something else.  Either way, you have created a mask for me, one that I will be stuck with. 

With this mask, I am free to express my innermost ponderings under the veil of anonymity.  And you free to criticize or praise, without any concern for repercussion.  So let us be honest, and not hold anything back.

 

ThemartiaN

Tags: Art, Atheism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Philosophy, Politics, Religion