Chapter 11
When Fortune Tellers Fail
OF PROGNOSTICATIONS For what concerns oracles, it is certain that a good while before the coming of Jesus Christ they had begun to lose their credit; for we see that Cicero troubled to find out the cause of their decay, and he has these words: “Cur isto modo jam oracula Delphis non eduntur, non modo nostro aetate, sed jam diu; ut nihil possit esse contemptius?” [“What is the reason that the oracles at Delphi are no longer uttered: not merely in this age of ours, but for a long time past, insomuch that nothing is more in contempt?” —Cicero, De…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Track Your Prediction Anxiety
Think about a current situation where you're anxious about the future - a job change, relationship, health concern, or family issue. Write down what specific predictions or reassurances you've been seeking from others. Then identify what you can actually control or influence in this situation right now, today.
Consider:
- •Notice how anxiety makes you want someone else to guarantee outcomes
- •Recognize the difference between helpful planning and magical thinking
- •Focus on building your own judgment rather than seeking false certainty
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when fear of the unknown led you to trust someone who promised certainty but couldn't actually deliver. What would you do differently now?
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