204: Stages of Truth
STAGES OF TRUTH
The philosopher, Arthur Schopenhauer, gave us the concept of the three stages of truth. There’s a debate about whether or not it was Schopenhauer. That’s not what this podcast is about.
This episode explores the brilliant observation that any new truth must pass through three stages before it is fully accepted and embraced by society.
The three stages of truth are:
- Ridicule
- Violent Opposition
- Self Evident
It’s fascinating that people will accept something as self evident, and, at that stage, even embrace it and passionately promote it after they violently opposed it. What does that mean?
It means that humans are hardwired to strongly resist change and to make many of their choices irrationally. Most of our decisions are emotionally based and rationally justified. That’s what makes us storytelling machines.
Here are some examples in our world of things that have either passed through or are still going through the three stages of truth.
- The automobile
- The airplane
- Franchise business model
- Network marketing business model
- Alcoholic beverages
- Cannabis
Why is it important to understand this phenomenon? Because we tend to do it unconsciously. That can lead to accepting limiting beliefs about life, about our own capabilities, and about what is possible. Unless we question or challenge our beliefs, we cannot discover if they support or harm us.
Today, we are surrounded by persuasive media messages 24/7. Many of those messages are dictating the stories we should live by. And, unknowingly, we accept those stories.
This podcast challenges you to create your stories, your life narratives, by design, and to not accept them by default.
Listen to this episode with an open mind, a sense of adventure and courage, and then take the challenge to question your beliefs and transform your life with an empowering story that you create.
