I usually like to think of myself as a pretty rational person- that I have a good amount of common sense and skills of reasoning. That I’m fairly open minded. But that’s until I get entirely and dramatically over-defensive about someone insulting maps on the iPhone 5.
It’s not my fault really. I was raised by an Apple addict. I grew up only using Apple computers, drooling over new Apple products, laughing at new Apple commercials and participating in other Apple nerd recreational activities. Of course making fun of Microsoft was also a big part of my life. I didn’t have a chance.
So now I am so incredibly loyal to dear ol’ Apple, I can’t think or speak poorly about them, much less stand to hear anyone criticize them. I recognize this as a problem, but I don’t think it’s curable.
You see, the problem doesn’t stop there. It extends to other areas of my life.
You think all Coldplay songs sound the same? Buster, you have no taste, no taste at all.
Russell Crowe is a sub-par actor who can only play a gladiator? You obviously have a very low IQ.
Star Wars was kind of boring except for that funny Jar Jar Binks guy? I will fight you.
I’ve always thought Steven Jobs was the man. Then I found out he denied his illegitimate daughter and was actually kind of a jerk. I still thought he was the man.
Blind spots like this can be dangerous (and I have many of them). They can make people mindlessly follow things that don’t necessarily line up with their believes or standards. Yeah, my favorite TV show might be going down hill, but I will lower my standards, live in denial and still think it’s quality. I’m that loyal of a fan. Or that dumb of one.
Maybe I even do that with friends or teachers or preachers. Maybe loyalty and my defenses block common sense and personal standards. And as the wise and esteemed Core has always taught us: never follow people or ideas blindly.
Now, I’m not saying I want to live in constant paranoia. Maybe just alertness and awareness. I would like my ideas of my open mindedness and rationality to actually be how I am. It would be nice to actually be able to criticize the new iPhone 5.
I’m trying to change. Really, I am.
But come on, Windows 7? Really?
