Changed My Mind The beliefs so strong they bend reality around them (with Spencer Greenberg)
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Aug 12, 2025 
In this discussion, Spencer Greenberg, an entrepreneur and social scientist, delves into the intricacies of belief systems. He explains anchor beliefs—deeply rooted convictions that often resist change even in the face of new evidence. The conversation highlights tools for rational thinking, the psychological dynamics behind valuism, and effective methods for navigating disagreements. Spencer also emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness when challenging entrenched beliefs, making it clear that self-reflection and understanding are key to personal growth.
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Work Around Immovable Beliefs
- In persuasion, identify which beliefs are anchor beliefs and stop fighting immovable ones.
- Instead, target flexible beliefs that can change and alter behavior via those levers.
Provide Easy, Identity-Friendly Actions
- Offer people actions that align with their identity and reduce pain, like feasible ways to help instead of just confronting guilt.
- Small, identity-consistent choices (e.g., switching eggs) make belief adoption likelier than forcing wholesale change.
Teach By Practice, Not Just Theory
- Teach concepts and let users practice them rather than just lecture; practice converts knowledge into behavior.
- Use interactive exercises and AI roleplay to increase the chance people apply new thinking skills.
