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P.C. Hodgell said - That which can be destroyed by the…

“P.C. Hodgell said - That which can be destroyed by the truth should be . Do not flinch from experiences that might destroy your beliefs. The thought you cannot think controls you more than thoughts you speak aloud. Submit yourself to ordeals and test yourself in fire. Relinquish the emotion which…” quote by Eliezer Yudkowsky
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““P.C. Hodgell said - That which can be destroyed by the truth should be . Do not flinch from experiences that might destroy your beliefs. The thought you cannot think controls you more than thoughts you speak aloud. Submit yourself to ordeals and test yourself in fire. Relinquish the emotion which rests upon a mistaken belief, and seek to feel fully that emotion which fits the facts. If the iron approaches your face, and you believe it is hot, and it is cool, the Way opposes your fear. If the iron approaches your face, and you believe it is cool, and it is hot, the Way opposes your calm. Evaluate your beliefs first and then arrive at your emotions. Let yourself say - If the iron is hot, I desire to believe it is hot, and if it is cool, I desire to believe it is cool.””

Eliezer Yudkowsky

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Truth can dismantle false beliefs; confronting reality reshapes emotions and actions.

In simple terms: Truth destroys false beliefs; face reality to align feelings.

Key Takeaway

Question beliefs, then emotions.

Themes

philosophy psychology self‑improvement

Mood

reflective determined

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • critical thinking
  • conflict resolution
  • decision making

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance belief revision emotional regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you test the truth of a belief?
  • What emotions arise when facts contradict expectations?
A Different Perspective

Beliefs may be deeply entrenched, making change painful.

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