The Litany of Tarski and Me

The Litany of Tarski

If the box contains a diamond,
I desire to believe that the box contains a diamond;
If the box does not contain a diamond,
I desire to believe that the box does not contain a diamond;
Let me not become attached to beliefs I may not want.

What’s the big idea? What value is there is rehearsing a tautology like the one above?

The idea is that, I value truth above comfort or pleasure. I would rather believe the truth, even if it hurts temporarily. Even if it’s inconvenient, even if it causes me to be ostracized from my social circle, even if it means I have to change my whole way of life, it’s worth it (in the long term).

Sometimes, us humans become emotionally attached to ideas, even if they don’t benefit us. Like a child who won’t let go of a blankie they grew up with. Part of growing up as a human is letting go of false ideas.

Sometimes, us humans use wishful thinking instead of rigorous intellectual scrutiny and fundamental understanding.

Not everyone is ready or willing to know the truth. That’s ok. We’re all on a journey. I would never force someone to acknowledge the truth.

Me, personally? I declare, that I am willing and ready. If it’s the truth, even if it’s painful, I want to know.