Fixing Belief
Fixing BeliefThe Four Methods of Charles S. Peirce
In �The Fixation of Belief�, Charles S. Peirce attempts to explain his four methods of establishing belief, in which he says all people have. These methods can be put to the test with any subject matter, and one shall always fit.
For instance, let us look at the broad but always hot topic of religious matters, or affairs. First, take into account Peirce�s first method, which is the method of tenacity. Its definition is, �taking as answer to a question any we may fancy, and constantly reiterating it to ourselves, dwelling on all which may conduce to that belief, and learning to turn with contempt and hatred from anything that might disturb it.� There is a very strong argument that this could be the method of choice for religious belief. Take apart the definition, for a moment and you might begin to see this. As it talks about constantly reiterating the belief to ourselves, it may very well be said that this could be construed as going to church each week.. What happens in church? Well, we pray, sing, give thanks and offerings, all that we may be reminded that our purpose in life is to serve our Lord with gladness and with all of our hearts at all times. The part that I do not see fit in the first method is the part about turning with contempt and hatred from anything that might disturb it. From past experience, I have always found religious people to be some of the most open minded people, willing to listen and be attentive to anything you have to say. They do not turn with contempt and hatred if you do not believe exactly what they believe. The only case where I see a religious group shutting out anything and everything, would be the monks.
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They go to great lengths to get as far from civilization as they possibly can, for fear of their own sanctity.
The second method of Peirce�s is the method of authority. This states, �Let the will of the state or the general public act, then, instead of that of the individual.� Of the four, this is the one that really matches up well in fixing belief in religious matters. This method stresses the importance of unifying the individual with the group. This is so true of all religion in that, a group of people is attempting to find a �lost soul�, show them their belief system, and their religion, in the hope that that individual will see the light and become part of their group. For if they are able to make the individual a strong believer, then they are one body stronger in upholding their ideas, doctrines, and beliefs. This method also allows a small amount of thinking within that...
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