06/14/2026 @ Laguna Beach
158 CA-1
Laguna Beach, California 80212
9:00-10:30 AM PST
Topic(s):
Are We Defined by Our Performances?
People behave differently around friends, family, teachers, coaches, coworkers, and strangers. We often talk about "being yourself," yet much of life seems to involve playing roles. Are these roles masks that hide who we really are, or are they part of who we are? If everyone is performing to some extent, is there even a "true self" beneath the performance?
Sources (Read Before):
Why Facts Don't Change Our Minds (The New Yorker)
Overview of why you hold onto beliefs despite contradictory evidence
Daniel Kahneman: The Value of Changing Your Mind
Short and readable. Explores why updating your views is often a strength rather than a weakness.
Make some notes on interesting points. The point is not to quiz on the fine minute details (dates, names, etc)--you can read all, some, or none. Zero pressure to read all, especially if you do not have time. These sources are merely meant to be convenient ways to help inform your opinion and fortify/build it up, not lectures. You can (and are encouraged to) read other sources as well to further gather information and work into your worldviews.
Interesting Points:
People tend to think others could change their beliefs whenever they want, but view their own beliefs as constrained by their own experience.
A belief can be inaccurate yet still provide emotional comfort. This raises the question: should truth always be the highest priority? Or can we preserve feelings?
Facts alone cannot be made meaningful without personal experiences and trusted relationships.
If changing your mind is a virtue, should we be suspicious of people who never do?
Many of our strongest beliefs are tied to identity. Changing them can feel less like correcting an error and more like changing who you are.
Discussion Questions:
Is it better to be known as someone who is consistent or someone who is adaptable?
What should it take for a reasonable person to change their mind on an important issue?
Are there any beliefs or principles that should not change, even if circumstances do? Why?
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