michael_nielsen

Adversity is a surer muse than isolation.

I think the vast majority who do this become crackpots. Exceptions are rare, but (to me) the only ones worth following, so it's a worthwhile tradeoff. How to increase SnR ratio here is the question

I don't think it's harsh. I think humans constantly look for cues from other people and adjust our beliefs accordingly. It seems then if you're a highly agreeable person, to have unique ideas, it helps to distance yourself from people so you don't succumb to peer pressure.

Have you been through something like that, man?

When you are 15-20, isolation might work, because it’s among natural desires of that age to grow up. Sadly, most never grow up, and many never even reach that growing stage. “Choose life”. Creativity is possible in social groups, and is so needed.