Herbert Spencer wrote, “There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep man in everlasting ignorance — that principle is contempt prior to investigation.”
So true. I deprived myself for so long of experiences and places about which I had preconceived or hereditary negative blocks. Then, when I tried them, I was usually delighted. Two examples:
I had the impression of Kansas City as nothing but a cow town full of unsophisticated hicks. When I finally went there I fell in love with that city – it’s one of my favourites in the States.
Secondly, oysters. I couldn’t dream how anyone could eat those slimy things. Then I tried them. Now I am amongst a group of eight men who may hold the record for the most dozens of oysters consumed at one table in one sitting at the Grand Central Station Oyster Bar in New York City.
All that said, it still doesn’t mean I am going to try beans on toast.
