Here's part of Huxley's agnostic principle...
"Agnosticism is of the essence of science, whether ancient or modern. It simply means that a man shall not say he knows or believes that which he has no scientific grounds for professing to know or believe.”
I think most can handle not saying that they "know" something if they lack the logic and evidence to support it. But can you also be without a "belief" about something unproven? I know there is a benefit to staying away from beliefs, especially towards matters that have factual information available for it, but is not having beliefs (in intellectual matters) practical?
Let's discuss.
*Keep in mind that Huxley's principle here only applied in an intellectual context (like in a debate, or when doing research, as opposed to day to day living). Like in what's quoted here:
"Positively the principle may be expressed: In matters of the intellect, follow your reason as far as it will take you, without regard to any other consideration. And negatively: In matters of the intellect, do not pretend that conclusions are certain which are not demonstrated or demonstrable. That I take to be the agnostic position..."
"Agnosticism is of the essence of science, whether ancient or modern. It simply means that a man shall not say he knows or believes that which he has no scientific grounds for professing to know or believe.”
I think most can handle not saying that they "know" something if they lack the logic and evidence to support it. But can you also be without a "belief" about something unproven? I know there is a benefit to staying away from beliefs, especially towards matters that have factual information available for it, but is not having beliefs (in intellectual matters) practical?
Let's discuss.
*Keep in mind that Huxley's principle here only applied in an intellectual context (like in a debate, or when doing research, as opposed to day to day living). Like in what's quoted here:
"Positively the principle may be expressed: In matters of the intellect, follow your reason as far as it will take you, without regard to any other consideration. And negatively: In matters of the intellect, do not pretend that conclusions are certain which are not demonstrated or demonstrable. That I take to be the agnostic position..."