Using the phrase “I believe”
The phrase 'I believe' signals that a claim is important to one's identity, transforming a description of the world into a self-definition.
THE IDEA
1. Using the phrase “I believe”
Prefacing a claim with the phrase “I believe” is a tip-off that it’s important to your identity. Think of statements like “I believe in optimism,” or “I believe that people are more good than bad,” or “I believe that women are changing the world.” That seemingly redundant phrase—shouldn’t it go without saying that you believe your own statements?—signals that you’re not simply describing the world, you’re defining yourself. “People can change” is a statement about how you think the world works. But “I believe people can change” is a statement about you, about what kind of person you are—generous, forgiving, compassionate.
When to use it
In debates, to recognize when an opponent is expressing identity rather than a testable claim.
In personal essays or public statements, to understand how language shapes self-presentation.
In negotiations, to identify when a position is tied to identity and thus harder to compromise on.
In social media, to analyze how users signal group belonging through belief statements.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Belief in optimism
Saying 'I believe in optimism' expresses a worldview and defines the speaker as an optimistic, positive person.
Belief in people's goodness
The statement 'I believe that people are more good than bad' signals that the speaker identifies as trusting and compassionate.
Belief in hard work
When someone says 'I believe that hard work pays off,' they are positioning themselves as a dedicated, industrious individual.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
When you use 'I believe' in an argument, how does it affect your openness to changing your mind?
What does your frequent use of 'I believe' reveal about the parts of your identity you are most invested in?
How might the phrase 'I believe' be used to avoid defending a claim on its own merits?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- The Scout Mindset (Julia Galef)