Most people think they are open-minded and would like others to perceive them as such. But for the things that matter most – religious beliefs, for example, or the meaning of life – few of us are genuinely willing to consider that we might be wrong, let alone do the hard work of revising beliefs. At a fundamental level, we humans are somewhat closed-minded.
Social Psychologist Daryl Van Tongeren has researched the big questions, such as what makes life meaningful and the nature of humility. He's had a long-standing interest in why people are so resistant to changing their cherished core beliefs. Fred Stella continues with Dr. Van Tongeren today on his article ‘Everyone wants to think they’re open‑minded – here’s why most people aren’t.’
Daryl R. Van Tongeren is the director of the Frost Center and a professor of psychology at Hope College.
