Charlotte Bronte: 'I am always easy of belief when the creed pleases me.'

I am always easy of belief when the creed pleases me.

In her well-known novel Jane Eyre, Charlotte Bronte once wrote, 'I am always easy of belief when the creed pleases me.' At first glance, this quote may seem straightforward, suggesting that Bronte is inclined to believe in something when it aligns with her personal preferences or feelings. This viewpoint can be seen as reflecting the human tendency to gravitate towards beliefs that bring comfort and joy. However, let us delve deeper into this quote and uncover a fascinating philosophical concept that brings a new dimension of intrigue and contemplation to Bronte's words.The notion of being "easy of belief" can be seen as a reflection of our inherent biases and human desire for affirmation. We often find ourselves gravitating towards ideas and ideologies that resonate with our personal values. Bronte acknowledges her propensity to be more open-minded and receptive when a particular creed or belief system appeals to her sensibilities. This relatability draws us closer to the quote as it mirrors our own experiences and inclinations.However, to further dissect the implications of Bronte's statement, we can introduce the concept of existential relativism. This philosophical perspective challenges the idea of definite truth and instead emphasizes the subjective nature of human experiences. From an existential relativist standpoint, beliefs and creeds hold value not in their objective truth but in their ability to offer personal meaning and purpose.In light of existential relativism, Bronte's "easy of belief" attitude gains a new layer of significance. Rather than suggesting a mere willingness to embrace pleasing creeds, her words encompass an understanding that personal truth and authenticity are vital to meaningful existence. Through this lens, she acknowledges that our beliefs are powerful sources of comfort, motivation, and even guidance.The contrasting concept is that of dogmatism. Dogmatism refers to an inflexible adherence to a particular belief system, dismissing other perspectives without consideration. When examining Bronte's quote, we can see the distinction between an individual who is "easy of belief" and one who is dogmatic. Although Bronte is open to accepting beliefs that resonate with her, she does not reject alternative creeds outright. Instead, she allows herself to be influenced and persuaded by ideas that genuinely speak to her, without closing herself off from differing viewpoints.The importance of Bronte's words lies in the balance she strikes between being receptive to new ideas while remaining true to herself. While existential relativism invites us to explore our own subjective truths, it also encourages us to remain open to the diverse perspectives that surround us.In conclusion, Bronte's quote, 'I am always easy of belief when the creed pleases me,' encapsulates the human inclination to gravitate towards beliefs that align with our personal values. It highlights the significance of finding personal meaning and purpose in our beliefs and the role they play in shaping our experiences. Additionally, by integrating the concept of existential relativism, we gain a deeper understanding of the quote's implications and the importance of maintaining an open and receptive attitude towards diverse viewpoints. Bronte's words serve as a reminder to embrace beliefs that genuinely resonate with us while being open to the rich tapestry of perspectives that the world has to offer.