Something that really bothers me is when I read from a “scientific” source who make inaccurate assumptions with false if/then conclusions. Here is an example that I read in Psychology Today:
Cheryl F. — Internet Forum
“Participants who kept their homes clean were healthier and more active than those who didn’t. In fact, house cleanliness was even more of a predictor for physical health than neighborhood walkability.”
The tone of the article inferred that if you kept your house clean you would be healthier and happier. Their conclusion is if you keep a clean home you will become healthy.
It is more likely that those who regularly keep a clean home do so because they are already healthier and happier.
My Response
I agree it sounds like correlation not causation but I have little doubt that it works regardless. Small victories cascade into larger ones and I believe this is supported by neuroscience.
We should not fall into the casual contempt trap of assuming that something is not wisdom simply because it doesn’t fall under our brand of scientific rigor. The world does not need more faux intellectuals making surface level evaluations based on what they think they know about science. (This may be the most difficult problem humanity is facing right now.) Instead, we all must strive to take things further, to remain curious and full of imagination, and remain lacking in contempt.
Justin
Optional Viewing
Video: Thomas Sowell on Intellectuals and Society