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Throughout the ages, the debate over the existence of a higher power has ignited philosophical discussions and challenged societal norms. Some argue that the belief in God is rooted in superstition, a construct that creates a false certainty as opposed to embracing the uncertainty that many scientists advocate. Christopher Boone, the protagonist in "The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Nighttime," initially presents as a staunch atheist, ridiculing religious beliefs. However, as the narrative unfolds, Christopher's complex and contradictory nature emerges, revealing a character torn between logic and superstition.
Christopher Boone, a fifteen-year-old with an extraordinary gift for mathematics and an aversion to the color yellow, exudes a need for order and structure in his life.
His meticulous daily routines and aversion to certain colors underscore his desire for control and a logical explanation for the world around him. Religion, however, stands as one of his acute dislikes. When confronted with the news of his mother's death, Christopher rejects the notion of an afterlife, dismissing religious beliefs as irrational and incompatible with his understanding of space.
Christopher's dismissive attitude towards religion may stem from his inherent need for concrete explanations.
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His refusal to accept religious concepts highlights a craving for control and a tendency to reject ideas that cannot be logically explained within the parameters of his understanding.
Despite his disdain for religion, Christopher reveals a surprising inclination towards superstition. His daily ritual of predicting the day's events based on the color of cars during his morning commute exemplifies this.
Yellow cars signal a bad day, while red cars signify a good one. This superstitious behavior contradicts his claim of being a purely logical thinker, shedding light on the complexity of his beliefs.
Psychologically, superstitions often arise from a desire for control and a need to explain the inexplicable. Christopher's adherence to the color-coded predictions aligns with this psychological explanation, revealing that his seemingly logical mind is not immune to the allure of superstition.
Christopher Boone, while vehemently criticizing believers in the Cottingley fairies hoax as illogical, finds himself succumbing to a similar pattern of behavior. After his father confiscates his book, Christopher stumbles upon letters addressed to a Christopher Boone in his father's bedroom. Despite the accurate street address and his name on the letters, Christopher rejects the possibility that they are intended for him, illustrating a glaring hypocrisy in his beliefs.
Christopher's refusal to acknowledge the obvious parallels the very illogical thinking he condemns in others. His actions mirror those of the believers in the fairies hoax, as he makes excuses, convinces himself of alternative explanations, and selectively accepts only what aligns with his preconceived beliefs.
In conclusion, Christopher Boone's character in "The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Nighttime" presents a fascinating exploration of the intricate interplay between superstition and logic. While initially portraying a dismissive attitude towards religion, Christopher's own superstitious tendencies and hypocritical actions reveal a deeper complexity in his belief system. The dichotomy between his logical reasoning and irrational superstitions serves as a powerful commentary on the nuanced nature of human beliefs, showcasing that even the most rational minds can succumb to contradictory convictions.
The Complexity of Beliefs: A Critical Analysis of Superstition & Faith. (2020, Jun 02). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/the-curious-incident-new-essay
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