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EMBRACING FREETHINKING, THE PATH TO INTELLECTUAL COURAGE.

In a world often governed by societal norms and entrenched beliefs, Leo Tolstoy's timeless words resonate deeply: "Freethinkers are those who are willing to use their minds without prejudice and without fearing to understand things that clash with their own customs, privileges, or beliefs. This state of mind is not common, but it is essential for right thinking."

The Essence of Freethinking

Tolstoy's insightful statement captures the spirit of freethinking, a way of thought that goes above personal prejudices and societal norms. It honours the courage to confront viewpoints contradicting long-held beliefs or practices, study ideas fearlessly, and participate in unbiased intellectual conversation. British philosopher Bertrand Russell echoed similar views in his quest for true understanding, saying that "the fundamental cause of the trouble is that, in the modern world, the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt." Russell's remarks highlight the value of humility in embracing freethinking. The understanding that true wisdom comes from inquiry and discovery rather than from absolute conviction.

The Courage to Challenge

Open-mindedness alone is not the essence of freethinking; it also requires the guts to question established beliefs. Albert Einstein, the renowned scientist, is credited with saying, "The greatest enemy of truth is blind belief in authority." This claim highlights how important it is to challenge authority and receive wisdom because mindless obedience stunts intellectual development. Freethinking encourages people to challenge their own beliefs and biases, fostering intellectual evolution and personal growth. Psychologist Carl Rogers highlighted the transformative power of freethinking, saying, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."

The Importance of Right Thinking

Tolstoy's reference to "right thinking" emphasises how important it is to develop an objective, logical way of seeing the world. It was said eloquently by Nobel winner Marie Curie, "Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood." This opinion supports the notion that actual comprehension results from unafraid investigation and examination. Immanuel Kant, a philosopher, emphasised the need for independent thought by saying, "Dare to know! Be brave enough to apply your own judgement!" Kant's appeal for intellectual independence correlates with Tolstoy's notion of freethinking, emphasizing the need to use one's own abilities to separate truth from convention.

Tolstoy's ideas shine like a light, pointing people in the direction of a way of thinking that prioritises intellectual bravery over conformity, critical thinking over mindless acceptance, and curiosity over complacency in a society where conformity frequently rules supreme. Adopting a freethinking mindset is a commitment to lifelong study and personal development as well as an act of intellectual liberty. It honours the ability of the human mind to investigate, ponder, and understand, even when it contradicts our most ingrained convictions.


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