Instinct Vs. Doubt

 (Photo by James Wheeler)

Figure 12.   Contemplate

Instinct

Instinct is our connection to Earth. We know, in an instant, the Spirit of life in all its forms. Here we appreciate the beauty and bounty of Earth’s provisions; know animals are our companions; understand Self; and form real connections with others.

Truth is known immediately.

However, instinctual thoughts not thoroughly researched, are spurious. Here we define opinion. This activity is on the path of discerning truth from fallacy. Instinct is a lead generator signalling our intellect to go on a mission to establish fact. As this knowledge stands the test of time we learn to recognise truth instinctively.

 (Photo by Daniel Frank)

Figure 13.   Shadow

Doubt

Skepticism

Skepticism is robust uncertainty. It’s a mental exercise that leads us toward truth in Self and others. Here we learn to question what we’ve been told about the past, present, and future.

Doubt

Doubt is a lack of trust in what we've proven true. It’s a state of mind others can use to erode our confidence. Here we lose free will.

Suspicion

Suspicion is suspecting something wrong without proof or on slight evidence [4]. It’s a fearful state of mind. Here logic and reason are routinely bypassed in the processing of opinions; thus, world view.

[4] H. B. Woolf, et al., eds., Websters New Collegiate Dictionary, (Springfield, MA: G. & C. Merriam Company, 1979), s.v. “suspicion.”