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The hardest part about gaining any new idea is sweeping out the false idea occupying that niche. As long as that niche is occupied, evidence and proof and logical demonstration get nowhere. But once the niche is emptied of the wrong idea that has been filling it - once you can honestly say, 'I don't know', then it becomes possible to get at the truth.

Robert A. Heinlein#175

TruthBeliefLearningGrowthMindset

About this quote

What does it mean?
New ideas require clearing out old false beliefs first, as evidence cannot penetrate until the mental space is empty.
In plain terms
Clear false ideas to make room for truth.
What can you take from it?
Empty your mind of wrong ideas to learn.

Where it applies

  • education
  • personal growth
  • problem solving

Putting it to work

  • admit ignorance
  • question beliefs
  • seek truth

Questions to consider

  • What false ideas block you?
  • Are you ready to learn?

Another view

Sometimes old ideas persist even with new evidence.

More from Robert A. Heinlein

  1. Women seem to have almost unlimited capacity for forgiveness. (Since it is usually a man who needs forgiveness, this must be a racial survival trait.)

    Permalink to quote #174
  2. How can you argue with a woman who won't?

    Permalink to quote #176
  3. Premenstrual Syndrome: Just before their periods women behave the way men do all the time.

    Permalink to quote #173

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