QotD: Mystical Theory

[liveonearth]

For me, the characteristic features of a mystlcial and therefore untrustworthy, theory are that it is not refutable, that it appeals to authority, that it relies heavily on anecdote, that is makes a virtue of consensus (look how many people believe like me!), and that it takes the high moral ground.  You will notice that this applies to most religions.
--Matt Ridley in Evolution of Everything; How New Ideas Emerge, page 270

Comments

[bobby1933.livejournal.com]

Some scientists understand mysticism to the same degree that some mystics understand science, which is doubly unfortunate. Mystics know that there is no known way to know what lies beyond the material realm; therefore there can be no mystical "theories." People may be fortunate enough to have mystical experiences, and scientists can study mystical experience; but neither scientist nor mystic can explain the experience or determine its meaning.

[liveonearth.livejournal.com]

I think he hit a button with the use of the word mystical. =-] I agree, there is no such thing as a mystical theory, mysticism is entirely experienced. Having had such experiences myself I grasp that some thing are not explained by everything that we know via science. And I would not give up my mystical experiences for anything.

[bobby1933.livejournal.com]

:)