Internet Conspiracies becoming Mainstream

**Montmorency** · 12-12-2016, 18:29

Originally Posted by Fisherking

hum, you seem to be missing something. Try harder. ;)

If you believe truth can be found by contravening or even ignoring The Authority, then you will satisfy yourself with only the most limited imaginings.

**Fisherking** · 12-12-2016, 19:18

Originally Posted by Montmorency

If you believe truth can be found by contravening or even ignoring The Authority, then you will satisfy yourself with only the most limited imaginings.

I said knowledge. You assumed Truth. Authority does not equal truth either. It is usually a self justified conclusion by those who assume it.

I am not speaking of seeking eternal truth, just making informed decisions based on the best available information and background knowledge of the subject.

**Montmorency** · 12-12-2016, 19:39

I am not speaking of seeking eternal truth, just making informed decisions based on the best available information and background knowledge of the subject.

Alright, let's think about that. How do you evaluate on purely personal grounds that you are making an informed decision, that your information is the best available, or that you are competent to approach it? Moreover, how can you do this in generalized opposition to or mistrust of others and of groups? How do you justify a claim to knowledge in that light?

**Fisherking** · 12-12-2016, 21:09

Originally Posted by Montmorency

Alright, let's think about that. How do you evaluate on purely personal grounds that you are making an informed decision, that your information is the best available, or that you are competent to approach it? Moreover, how can you do this in generalized opposition to or mistrust of others and of groups? How do you justify a claim to knowledge in that light?

Using classical methods. Logic, reasoning, dialectic, and a good grasp on rhetoric. Consulting primary sources when possible. Research and objective analysis.

**Montmorency** · 12-12-2016, 21:34

But that's just a gloze. Taking yourself for granted is no different than taking "propaganda" for granted.

**Fisherking** · 12-12-2016, 23:14

Originally Posted by Montmorency

But that's just a gloze. Taking yourself for granted is no different than taking "propaganda" for granted.

Certainly questioning others may be a good way to learn but it gives now weight at all to you opinions.

**Montmorency** · 12-12-2016, 23:32

Certainly questioning others may be a good way to learn but it gives now weight at all to you opinions.

This is one aspect of my complaint against the notion that one should or can take confidence in their own thought as independent from individuals or institutions - yet I suspect you aren't expressing your agreement.