The area that this occurs the most is in politics. I honestly believe that if anyone actually thought things through logically, they'd be a free-marketeer, as the markets are necessarily just a more efficient form of direct democracy. Similarly, utilitarianism would die a quick death if people actually thought things through, because of Hume's Fork (ie. it's a fallacy to assume that just because things have always occurred in a certain way that they will continue to, voiding consequentialism). Thus anarcho-capitalism is actually a perfectly reasonable political position. Logic and economic theory won't change if I suddenly become ten years older, kthnx.
In fact, increased experience and/or age probably means that one is less likely to be correct, if anything. Accumulation of experience generally only means a greater appreciation of emotions and a gradual affection towards the status quo, after all. The young are therefore more likely to exercise pure reason, unblinkered by emotional fallacies.
Of course, I would say all of this, so this rant should probably be taken with a pinch of salt (mm, what does that expression mean anyway?). Especially since it's nearly 8am and I haven't slept in two days. Oh, the folly of youth!
I wouldn't dismiss your opinions based on your age, but I can see why some people would, in a I-can't-be-bothered-to-explain manner, say you're too young to understand. It is condescending but I do think you appear naive sometimes. Regarding the paragraph about the young being more likely to exercise pure reason, that is true sometimes, but it's interesting you should mention politics as the area where this dismissal occurs most, because it's one thing where 'logic' and pure reason aren't as important as experience. I think this is probably why you're so idealistic.
ReplyDeleteLol, me idealistic?
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I know that I'll hold the complete opposite opinion as soon as I actually grow up, it's just frustrating to be discounted based on one arbitrary factor. Idk.