"The Fixation of Belief" (essay by Charles Sanders Peirce)

In "The Fixation of Belief," Charles Sanders Peirce explores how people come to hold beliefs and how they justify those beliefs. He argues that individuals seek stability in their beliefs, using methods like tenacity (holding on stubbornly), authority (relying on experts), and scientific inquiry (using evidence and reasoning). Peirce emphasizes that the scientific method is the most reliable way to fix beliefs, as it encourages questioning, testing, and revising ideas based on experience and evidence. Ultimately, he highlights the importance of critical thinking and adaptability in our understanding of the world.