Siddarth Shukla

Human beings have a natural tendency to harbor delusions—false beliefs and assumptions that often go unrecognized. These delusions arise from conclusions we draw throughout our lives, frequently without questioning their validity. This unexamined ignorance can manifest as arrogance when we defend these conclusions fiercely. It is this duality—the coexistence of innate delusions and a natural curiosity for truth—that shapes our journey toward understanding and wisdom.

One of the most pervasive delusions in contemporary society is our unquestioning acceptance of fiat currency. The money we use daily—whether the US dollar, Canadian dollar, or Indian rupee—holds value because a government declares it so, not because it has intrinsic worth. This system is so deeply embedded in our lives that we rarely, if ever, question it. As children, many of us may have wondered how mere pieces of paper could hold such value. Yet, as long as we could buy things, we accepted it without further inquiry. This unquestioning acceptance reflects a broader ignorance.

In the age of the internet, however, it has become easier to seek answers and challenge long-held beliefs. Despite the abundance of information, many of us still cling to our delusions. This is evident in the defense of fiat currency by prominent economists against emerging alternatives like Bitcoin. Intellectuals such as Nicholas Taleb, despite understanding Bitcoin, have publicly criticized it, highlighting the deep-rooted nature of our delusions.

The key to overcoming these delusions lies in maintaining a state of curiosity and skepticism. It is vital to question our assumptions and beliefs across all domains of life. By staying curious and embracing doubt, we can begin to dismantle our ignorance. This process requires us to be open to the discomfort that comes when reality challenges our delusions.

Pain is an inevitable part of the truth-seeking journey, as it forces us to confront and reevaluate our beliefs. Desire also plays a significant role in fueling our delusions. Our desire to be right often blinds us to the truth, keeping us trapped in ignorance. When our delusions are shattered, the negative emotions associated with them—desperation, excessive attachment, anger—begin to dissipate. Many of our material desires can be categorized under the desire for money. However, we rarely try to understand what money truly is.

To gain a deeper understanding of money, one could explore the insights of Robert Breedlove. His writings and podcasts, particularly his discussions with Michael Saylor, delve deeply into the question of what money is. Understanding the nature of money can transform our relationship with it. By comprehending its purpose and mechanisms, we can move past our delusions and gain clarity.

The journey to dispel delusions is deeply personal. It requires introspection, meditation, and a reliance on the immutable laws of the universe. We cannot depend solely on external authorities or experts; rather, we must trust our own capacity for critical thinking and self-reflection.

Ultimately, our quest for truth is a continuous process. It involves recognizing our innate delusions, questioning our beliefs, and embracing the discomfort that comes with challenging our assumptions. By doing so, we can break free from ignorance, achieve greater clarity, and live more authentically. The pursuit of truth is not merely an intellectual endeavor but a transformative journey that shapes our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.