Keep Your Identity Small

Paul Graham:

I think what religion and politics have in common is that they become part of people’s identity, and people can never have a fruitful argument about something that’s part of their identity. By definition they’re partisan. (…) If people can’t think clearly about anything that has become part of their identity, then all other things being equal, the best plan is to let as few things into your identity as possible. (…) there is a step beyond thinking of yourself as x but tolerating y: not even to consider yourself an x. The more labels you have for yourself, the dumber they make you.

An interesting read on how to not waste time, breath, and brain cycles defending personal beliefs that can’t be proven. The easiest way? Don’t insult your intelligence by labeling yourself in the first place. (via givemesomethingtoread)