Why do you believe the things you do? Few of us invent our own philosophies—they are handed down to us over generations, shaped by time, place, and dominant cultural “memes.” In Fully Human/Fully Alive, Lyle Simpson uses the example of belief in an afterlife as an entry point to unraveling how and why we collect—and cling to—so many inherited ideas.
Simpson explores how memes—units of culture like stories, customs, and values—propagate not through rational proof but repeated social reinforcement. At first, these beliefs provide comfort, identity, and community. But ask yourself: which beliefs have you examined, and which just “came with the territory”?
Analyzing beliefs is an act of liberation. Simpson recommends tracing the roots of each idea. Are you believing something because it’s true for you, or because it serves a historic or social function? Recognize that most beliefs are more about belonging than about empirical certainty.
This isn’t meant to breed cynicism but rather empower clarity. Through critical reflection, you may decide to keep, revise, or let go of beliefs that no longer fit your values or understanding. Life after death is a powerful meme; for some, it brings comfort, for others, it’s a relic of another age. What matters is your conscious engagement, not blind adoption.
In a noisy, complex world, unexamined beliefs can limit growth. With courage and curiosity, you can sift your convictions and reclaim your power to believe meaningfully—one choice at a time.