Belief

The scientific and humanist mind uses the word "belief" as a synonym for "working hypothesis". The religious use the same word to describe a static canon of religious laws, cosmology and rites (a belief system). This is a crucial difference between the secular humanist and anyone who accepts the assumptions of any religion. 

Seeing my life as an ongoing science experiment has been very helpful to me. It has kept me from meddling in the lives of others to seek control over them. Maintaining my own life laboratory takes up a lot of time. This consciousness has also liberated me from the control of others. Realization that a series of life experiments in the context of a relationship, for example, are an abysmal failure for my happiness or the happiness of The Other dictates a necessity for a new working hypothesis and change. This has prevented me from trapping myself in a dysfunctional relationship. Remaining both committed and liberated is not easy.

Passivity is the path of the fearful and those sleeping the sleep of chosen ignorance. Hypnotically treading the well-worn path from cradle to grave is rewarded by those who wish to maintain control of others ... dictators, conservatives, leaders, parents, professors, pastors, rabbis, imams, etc.. Surrendering to convention is safety for those who fear. Convention is stagnation to those who think.