Why is it so uncommon for people to actually change their mind about things?
Very few people seem willing to examine their own prejudices or change their minds about cherished beliefs. I’ve always thought that doing this is one of the most important aspects of clear thinking, but society as a whole seems to look down on this.
Many people seem to see backing down on an issue as a sign of weakness, and politicians are often challenged if they seem to show any sign of changing their view (flip flopping).
Even here, on a message board dedicated to fighting ignorance, few people seem to concede even a single point on an issue, and often flat out ignore arguments that they can’t easily respond to, or refuse to consider the possibility that both sides are partly right and partly wrong.
Our positions and beliefs, the “configurations” and outputs of these incredible biological computers in our skulls, are every bit as much our identities as our faces and speech-patterns. For me to “change one’s mind” is to admit that there is something wrong with me, something in my identity which must change. Outputting a significantly different decision or taking on a significantly different configuration is in some ways as radical a step as plastic surgery or speech therapy.
I have changed my mind on many occasions, and recognised when I am wrong. I have even said so explicitly here on these boards when rigorous and patient argument has exposed fatal holes in my previous position, and hope that I would do so again in future with grace and dignity.
But to do so requires no little bravery and honesty. Anyone who does so explicitly and in full view of others has my admiration.
Robert F. Kennedy was once challenged on a change in his position on the death penalty, which he was against. When asked about his statements some years prior supporting the death penalty, he responded, “That was before I read Camu”. He turned a flip flop into a moral strength by showing how people can grow through exposure to other points of view.
If you susbscribe to meme theory, then it’s a simple case of those memes which are hardiest and least resistant to change having outcompeted those that yielded.
Well, not quite a simple as that, but there’s probably something in it.
All above answers sound good, but I think you mostly answered your own question:
Slightly related question: How many politicians have actually switched their major positions, or even switched parties?