It seems like...a lot of the time...we consistently look for evidence to support what we already believe, and we consistently filter out anything to the contrary.
This is the wisest thing anyone in this thread has said. It's true - about everyone, including myself. Nobody really listens to what people with different view points have to say, they just look for things they agree with and nod their heads and take note of it if it sounds like it might be a useful thing to repeat in the future. It is rare for any of us to truly take time to think about anyone else's perspective or the reality that they see. This is why it is almost pointless to post in these forums, or most anywhere. If you say something others disagree with, they will find ways to ignore or deflect or belittle what you have to say with little regard to any truth that might be there if it offends their preconceptions. It's also the reason the world is so full of hate - we hate it when someone disagrees with our preconceptions of the world. It's like they are challenging our reality. And in a way, they are.
