Thank you for this detailed and expert treatise on cognitive dissonance. I have often seen people (including myself) in denial mode - your post explained why this happenes. I often wonder about the way our neural networks in the brain are designed - 'comfort level' of the brain is higher when processing information that is similar to something already stored, I am told. Perhaps that is why, something new and especially conflicting is presented, the brain tends to get stressed and tries to reject. Anyway- thanks for your great blog. Upvoted.
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Indeed, good point on the neuroplasticity. We have ingrained habits that are hard to break but can be as we reform the pathways to automate our selection for certain behaviors. Changes that neuroplasticity is resisted at first since it's already established as a road to take. Making a new road takes more work. Thanks for the feedback.