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The path of least resistance and least trouble is a mental…

“The path of least resistance and least trouble is a mental rut already made. It requires troublesome work to undertake the alternation of old beliefs. Self-conceit often regards it as a sign of weakness to admit that a belief to which we have once committed ourselves is wrong. We get so identified…” quote by John Dewey
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“The path of least resistance and least trouble is a mental rut already made. It requires troublesome work to undertake the alternation of old beliefs. Self-conceit often regards it as a sign of weakness to admit that a belief to which we have once committed ourselves is wrong. We get so identified with an idea that it is literally a pet notion and we rise to its defense and stop our eyes and ears to anything different.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

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

Changing entrenched beliefs is hard because we cling to familiar ideas, seeing doubt as weakness, which blocks growth.

In simple terms: Changing old ideas is hard because we see doubt as weakness.

Key Takeaway

Challenge comfortable beliefs to grow.

Themes

psychology change comfort zones

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • education
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance self-awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What belief are you defending without questioning?
  • How can you view doubt as strength?
A Different Perspective

People may resist change out of fear of losing identity.

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