It is more harmful to compromise one's own beliefs than to adhere to them.Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with thestatement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supportingy

Belief refers to assuming something as truth irrespective of empirical evidence. It acts as an important guidance for action and not necessarily as an indicator of truth. I do agree that in most cases, it is more harmful to compromise one's own beliefs than to adhere to them. However, there are certain exceptional circumstances where it is better to eschew the belief system altogether when it is proven to be morally wrong.

Firstly, compromising on one's belief system can be counterproductive as it ceases to be an important tool for guiding one's action. Belief system helps individuals to take a decisive course of action and avoid dilemmas. When an individual's belief system is compromised it might result in a situation where the individual is unable to take any course of action as he experiences a dilemma. This can seriously impair the decision making capabilities of a person and consequently may be more harmful in the longer run than when he adheres to his tried and tested belief system.

Secondly, compromising one's belief system for short term gain can erode a person's individuality and self worth in the long run and effect his integrity. For example, let us take a person who believes in honesty and is against corruption. In light of recent financial troubles at home he compromises on his honesty and takes bribe . This may satisfy his temporary needs , but does not give him any happiness in the long term. He loses his self worth, as people who till now respected him for his integrity will no longer do so.

On the other hand, there are instances where a person faces a situation wherein his belief system is found to be immoral and harmful in the long run not only for him but also for the society at large. In such a case, it is much better to eschew one's belief system rather than adhere to it and adopt a more scrupulous belief system as a guidance for one's action. For instance, King Ashoka when he saw the death and destruction caused by his belief in war and acquisition during the kalinga war, gave it up in favour of Buddhist belief system of peace and non-violence. This not only was beneficial to him but also for the kingdom which reaped the rewards of peace and prosperity.

In conclusion, in most of the cases it is better to adhere to one's belief system rather than compromise on it, as it prevents harmful effects in the form loss of one's individuality and loss of ability to make decisive decisions. Yet, in certain circumstances when the belief system is proven to be immoral it is better to eschew it in favour of a more scrupulous belief system.