Works: Gummed By Rationalization

From Richard Rose's list of obstacles to transcendental efforts -- Forms of Rationalization (177):

• That we will be able to do the thing better at a later date. Procrastination.
• That we will ride the tide of humanity into heaven.
• That the social services or "good works" have spiritual gain.
• That the gods have ears. Salvation through prayers.
• That the gods have noses and eyes. Incense and displays.
• That positive thinking will make gods of us or lead us to liberation.
• That the guru will save us.
• That faith will save us.
• That spiritual paths may be evaluated by their popularity.
• That we can "feel" our way alone. Intuition alone.
• That we can do it with our omnipotent reason.
• That God, (or Mr. X) will take care of everything. This is a variation of the "Knight on the white horse" rationalization.
• That our present belief shall be our final evalutation of Truth.
• That everything is hopeless or useless.

Rose, Richard. The Albigen Papers. 3rd ed. Benwood: The Pyramid Press, 1973