Our beliefs can shape our actions, influence our decisions, and guide us through challenges. But what if our beliefs donât have to be rooted in some unchanging truth? What if the most effective beliefs are the ones that serve us best at any given moment? This concept, “useful, not true,” challenges our conventional belief understanding and encourages a more flexible, practical approach to navigating life.
By examining the intersection of usefulness and truth, we understand that the beliefs we choose need not be infallible or universally acceptedâthey only need to help us move forward. This philosophy invites us to be mindful of our beliefs, question them continuously, and embrace those that propel us toward a life of growth, purpose, and ethical alignment.
The Subjectivity of Truth and Self-Perception
Human beings are deeply convinced of the accuracy of their perceptions. We often assume that our memories, thoughts, and beliefs reflect objective reality. Yet, cognitive science reveals that our memories are anything but perfect. They are reconstructed by the brain each time we recall them, influenced by the present moment, emotions, and external suggestions. This reconstruction process makes memories prone to distortion, such as the tendency to embellish or omit details, particularly when trying to make sense of complex events. The brain also links memories to current beliefs and desires, making the recollection less of an accurate reflection of reality and more of a tool to maintain emotional equilibrium.
Take, for example, a person reflecting on a difficult childhood. They may look back with nostalgia and believe their experiences were far worse than they were, or conversely, they may diminish the impact of certain events that were, in fact, formative and painful. This cognitive distortion can significantly shape their current worldview and understanding of their personal story. Yet, despite these discrepancies, we tend to trust our self-narratives as objective truths without considering how they may have been warped by time, perception, and emotion.
Even our motivations are clouded by similar biases. We think we understand why we choose one career path over another, pursue certain relationships, or react the way we do in specific situations. In truth, much of our behavior is driven by subconscious factors. For instance, the decisions that seem to come from logical reasoningâsuch as career choices or lifestyle changesâare often influenced by hidden desires, fears, and societal expectations. These motivations might be difficult to recognize or even contradict our story. As a result, we cannot always know ourselves with absolute clarity. The belief that we understand our inner workings without question is, at best, naive and, at worst, a dangerous shortcut to self-awareness.
The idea that we donât know ourselves as well as we think is humbling and empowering. It calls into question the foundation of our beliefs and opens up a broader perspective on how we approach the world. Suppose we can accept the fallibility of our self-perception. In that case, we can question our assumptions, be open to new ideas, and, most importantly, adopt beliefs that serve us now rather than cling to ones based on faulty or incomplete understandings of ourselves.
Choosing Beliefs for Practical Impact
Beliefs are tools for living, not immutable truths. This is the fundamental principle behind choosing beliefs based on their utility. In everyday life, we are confronted with countless situations that require us to interpret and make sense of whatâs happening. Our beliefs shape how we view the world and act in response to its challenges. For example, the belief that you are capable of success will motivate you to put in the effort and take risks, even when things are uncertain. Alternatively, believing that youâre doomed to failure can paralyze you with fear and self-doubt, leaving you unable to act.
Take, for instance, the decision to tackle a difficult task. If you approach the task with the belief that it is an insurmountable challenge, you’re likely to avoid it, procrastinate, or feel overwhelmed. On the other hand, if you believe that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, you might approach the task enthusiastically, ready to learn from the experience. The task itself doesnât change, but your belief about it alters how you interact with it.
Beliefs are not staticâthey evolve in response to your circumstances and goals. If a belief isnât serving you, you can replace it with one that works better. The concept of “useful, not true” suggests we don’t need to hold onto beliefs. They are “objectively” correct; we should adopt them because they help us take action, achieve our goals, and live with a sense of purpose. This mindset encourages flexibility, allowing us to adapt our beliefs as we grow and learn.
Furthermore, useful beliefs can serve as powerful motivators. If a belief makes you feel more capable, confident, or motivated, it has already proven worth. The key here is not to be dogmatic or rigid in our belief systems but to recognize that beliefs should enhance our capacity for action, resilience, and growth. If they don’t, it may be time to reassess them. This approach enables you to navigate life more easily, empowering you to confront obstacles, solve problems, and pursue goals with a mindset supporting your well-being.
The Limits of Useful Beliefs: Ethical Boundaries
While beliefs can be powerful tools, itâs crucial to consider their ethical implications. Though useful in achieving personal goals, some beliefs can also lead to harmful or unethical behavior. The core of the “useful, not true” philosophy lies in the understanding that while beliefs help us act, they also shape how we interact with the world and others. For example, a belief promoting self-interest at the expense of others may serve an individualâs short-term goals but can damage personal relationships, trust, and mental well-being.
In the corporate world, a leader might believe in their superiority to justify aggressive tactics, exploitation, or disregard for the well-being of employees. While this belief might yield immediate success, it will ultimately undermine the leader’s reputation, create toxicity within the organization, and harm long-term growth. Similarly, a person might justify unethical behavior by believing that the end justifies the means, which is often a rationalization for dishonesty, manipulation, or even cruelty.
The real danger of adopting “useful, not true” beliefs comes when those beliefs promote harm or injustice. Itâs one thing to hold a belief that serves you personally. Still, itâs another when that belief perpetuates harm to others, especially if it results in systemic inequality, exploitation, or violence. For example, the belief that one race, culture, or group is superior to another has been used to justify slavery, colonialism, and genocide. In this case, the belief is useful only to those who seek power at the expense of others, and it certainly doesnât serve the collective good.
We must impose ethical boundaries here. A belief that harms othersâwhether directly or indirectlyâcannot be considered truly useful. We must evaluate the impact of our beliefs on ourselves and the world around us. A belief that serves the collective good encourages kindness, empathy, and fairness, and fosters long-term success is far more valuable than one that only serves our immediate desires.
Psychopaths and the Danger of Unchecked Beliefs
The “useful, not true” philosophy is fraught with ethical risks, particularly when applied to individuals with a distorted sense of reality or an unchecked drive for self-interest. Psychopaths, for example, often hold beliefs that serve their egos, justify harmful actions, and allow them to manipulate others without remorse. Believing that they are entitled to control or harm others may be incredibly useful, allowing them to achieve personal gain and satisfaction without the emotional or moral constraints that typically guide human behavior.
For instance, a psychopath might believe that the rules of society do not apply to them, which allows them to engage in deceit, manipulation, or even violence to achieve their goals. The belief that they are above others or more deserving can lead them to exploit people or situations without feeling guilt or shame. While this belief may serve them in the short term, it profoundly harms the people they interact with and erodes their sense of humanity in the process.
Similarly, leaders and politicians who justify immoral actionsâsuch as winning an election by any means necessary, even if that involves lying or cheatingâemploy beliefs that allow them to navigate the world without considering the broader consequences of their actions. These beliefs may be useful in maintaining power but are ultimately corrosive to democracy, trust, and social harmony.
The danger is when these beliefs are unchecked and unchallenged. People who adopt harmful beliefs without questioning them may go on to create chaos, division, and harm. Therefore, it is critical to recognize when a belief is being used for harmful purposes. The flexibility inherent in the “useful, not true” philosophy should not extend to beliefs that justify exploitation, violence, or manipulation. These beliefs may appear useful to the individual but are ultimately detrimental to everyone else.
The Dangers of Overconfidence: A Case Study
Kanye West’s story is a compelling example of how overconfidence can transform a useful belief into a dangerous one. Early in his career, Kanye’s unshakeable belief in his potential drove his success. He faced countless rejections, yet he refused to be deterred. His belief that he was destined for greatness gave him the tenacity to keep pushing forward, regardless of the obstacles.
However, as Kanye’s fame and wealth grew, his belief in his superiority became more destructive. Surrounded by adoring fans and yes-men, he became disconnected from reality. His confidence, which had once fueled his success, now led him to make rash decisions, alienate others, and exhibit increasingly erratic behavior. The unchecked belief in his brilliance and invincibility led to public controversies, strained relationships, and a diminishing reputation.
This shift highlights the fine line between useful beliefs and overconfidence. While confidence is often a crucial element of success, it can cloud judgment and isolate an individual from constructive feedback when taken to extremes. The belief that one is always right or above the rules can quickly evolve into a destructive force. It is essential to remain flexible with beliefs and recognize when they hinder personal growth and relationships.
The Flexibility of Beliefs: Adapting to Change
One of the most critical aspects of the “useful, not true” philosophy is the recognition that beliefs should not be static. Life is fluid, and circumstances change rapidlyâwhat was once a useful belief may no longer serve you in your current situation. This flexibility in beliefs is essential to continuous personal growth. Holding onto outdated or irrelevant beliefs can limit your potential and prevent you from adapting to new challenges.
In the business world, for example, young entrepreneurs might believe that success comes from sheer hustle and competition. This belief may serve them in the early stages of their careers, helping them overcome obstacles and seize opportunities. However, the same belief may no longer be effective once they reach a leadership position. At the top, collaboration, emotional intelligence, and long-term vision are more valuable than relentless competition. Entrepreneurs risk stagnation or burnout if they fail to adapt their beliefs to fit their new role.
Similarly, beliefs that served us well in one phase of life may no longer be relevant in another. For example, believing you must always be in control might help you excel in a fast-paced, competitive environment. But as you grow older, you may find that letting go of control and trusting others leads to more meaningful and sustainable success. This flexibility allows you to evolve and adapt, keeping your beliefs in alignment with your current goals and values.
Useful vs. True: The Ethical Dimension
At its core, the “useful, not true” philosophy requires us to question what beliefs serve us and what impact those beliefs have on others. A belief can be useful to an individual, but if it harms others or perpetuates inequality, it can no longer be considered truly useful. This is where the ethical dimension of belief comes into play. A belief that promotes personal growth and well-being while fostering empathy, collaboration, and respect for others is far more valuable than one that serves individual desires.
This is not to say that all beliefs must be universally altruistic; rather, the test is whether the belief helps to create a positive, supportive environment for both the individual and the collective. In a social world, our beliefs donât just affect our livesâthey affect everyone around us. Therefore, itâs essential to consider how our beliefs shape our actions and how we interact with others. A belief that encourages fairness, understanding, and kindness is far more useful in the long run than one that fosters division or exploitation.
Ultimately, the most useful beliefs empower us to grow as individuals while contributing to the well-being of the larger community. They support the collective good, create opportunities for others, and encourage a deeper sense of shared humanity. Only then can we be certain that our beliefs are useful to ourselves and the world around us?
Conclusion: A Tool for Living Well
The idea of “useful, not true” offers a refreshing perspective on belief systems. It encourages us to focus on what works rather than what is “objectively” right. By recognizing that our beliefs are tools, not immutable truths, we can adapt them to serve us better in different life stages. However, this flexibility must be balanced with ethical considerations, ensuring our beliefs align with our broader goals and contribute positively to the world.
Ultimately, the most powerful beliefs empower us to grow, make thoughtful decisions, and lead the fulfilling, meaningful, and respectful lives of others. By choosing useful and ethically sound beliefs, we can craft a life that serves our personal ambitions and enhances the collective good.