The Big Realizations

In my youth, I held a strong belief in God, largely influenced by the Christian teachings prevalent during my schooling in Finland. This faith provided a comforting sense of home. However, as I delved deeper into history, I began to understand how organized religions evolved alongside the complexities of society, and how they often served to justify human dominance over the planet. I also observed nationalism taking the place of religion in many secular societies.

My curiosity led me to paleontology, where I discovered the existence of ancient creatures that roamed the Earth long before us and the five mass extinctions that have occurred throughout geological time. This exploration made me realize just how minute our existence is in the grand timeline of our planet.

I respect everyone's beliefs and recognize that many forces in the universe remain beyond our comprehension. However, I no longer subscribe to the human-created narratives surrounding these forces. I’ve learned to adjust my views, even on substantial matters.

In 2014, I made the decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle, and I haven’t looked back since. Ironically, people often perceive vegans as inflexible, yet the reality is quite the opposite. Choosing veganism required a significant shift in perspective, challenging deeply ingrained beliefs that I had held for a lifetime.

It wasn't as if we were educated about plant-based diets in school; rather, we were inundated with images of contented cows and taught to enjoy meat and dairy while petting our dogs, thus internalizing speciesism.

Nevertheless, I encountered sufficient evidence to rethink my choices, and I did. Should I come across convincing arguments that suggest otherwise, I remain open to reevaluating my stance.

The essence of being wrong is foundational to science and innovation. If we didn’t have individuals challenging established norms, progress would stagnate. Admitting mistakes is often viewed negatively, yet it is one of the most constructive lessons one can learn. It is key to personal development and prevents one from becoming a cantankerous individual whom others shy away from.

Values: The Core Beliefs

While certain beliefs are less likely to shift, they often stem from our deepest fears and aspirations. Values such as compassion and equality have likely shaped my identity as a feminist and a left-leaning voter.

These principles were nurtured in me as a sensitive and imaginative child. My fears have fostered empathy for the experiences of others. Although I believe these values are deeply ingrained and more resistant to change than mere opinions, they too can evolve.

Have you noticed how financial success often leads to a more conservative outlook? Many individuals become more protective in response to perceived threats, such as immigration—this is a favorite topic for right-wing politicians and certain media outlets during election cycles.

Self-preservation remains a dominant instinct; we are wired to defend ourselves, our communities, and those we identify with, even if it sometimes contradicts our other values.

Today, we find ourselves in a climate where many are gravitating towards right-wing populism out of fear of losing their status. Economic uncertainty, inflation, and climate change are challenges that impact us all.

Our communication systems and the prevalence of misinformation contribute to a heightened sense of anxiety about losing what we hold dear. Social media and other media outlets often discourage us from entertaining different viewpoints, providing instead a barrage of ready-made opinions devoid of nuance.

In these times, it is crucial to recognize that protecting others can, in fact, serve our self-interests. We must learn to adopt a broader perspective. Most importantly, we need to understand that being wrong is not a failure; it is a vital part of growth.

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