Principlev1

Limit the number of topics and beliefs you make

Limit the number of topics and beliefs you make identity-defining rather than evidence-responsive, since identity fusion with a claim prevents rational evaluation of evidence about that claim.

Why This Is a Principle

This principle derives from Belief Perseverance Against Contradictory Evidence (belief maintenance), Knowledge of cognitive biases does not reduce susceptibility (bias blindness), and Human beings construct identity through ongoing narrative (narrative identity). It prescribes strategic identity minimalism grounded in Paul Graham's 'Keep Your Identity Small' and Tetlock's forecasting research. The principle is actionable (consciously limit identity commitments) and applies to epistemic and decision-making contexts.

Source Lessons

L-1150

Identity flexibility

Holding your identity lightly enough to update it when evidence warrants.

Connections

Derived From (3)

AxiomBelief Perseverance Against Contradictory Evidence AxiomKnowledge of cognitive biases does not reduce susceptibility AxiomHuman beings construct identity through ongoing narrative

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