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Sun Quote by Eliezer Yudkowsky

“This is one of the primary mechanisms whereby, if a fool says the sun is shining, we do not correctly discard this as irrelevant nonevidence, but rather find ourselves impelled to say that it must be dark outside.” quote by Eliezer Yudkowsky
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““This is one of the primary mechanisms whereby, if a fool says the sun is shining, we do not correctly discard this as irrelevant nonevidence, but rather find ourselves impelled to say that it must be dark outside.””

Eliezer Yudkowsky

About This Quote

Source Essay: Rationality: From AI to Zombies, 2015

People tend to accept false premises if they fit a narrative, leading to mistaken conclusions.

In simple terms: We accept nonsense when it fits our story.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions before believing.

Themes

cognitive bias logic belief formation critical thinking

Mood

skeptical inquisitive analytical

Type

aphor advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • media consumption
  • scientific discourse
  • decision making

Key Concepts

confirmation bias argument from ignorance epistemic vigilance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence would change your mind?
  • How do you spot hidden assumptions?
A Different Perspective

Overcoming bias requires effort and training.

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