Why I'm doing this

Within the last week, upon completion of a short story, I had a friend suggest to me that I set up a blog. I considered it for a few days and decided I would give it a try. I figured this would be a good chance for me to express my opinions on relevant issues as well as to post some of my more creative writing for others to read. My title, "The Contrarian" I took from Christopher Hitchens book "Letters to a Young Contrarian." I chose that title primarily because I liked the sound of it (Not that I plan on being contentious or anything). I welcome comments and feedback on all my posts. I especially welcome everyone who reads this to challenge my ideas. I've told many people that one of my maxims was said by Bertrand Russell who said "Most people would rather die than think. In fact, they do!" as well as the Socratic saying "The unexamined life is not worth living." I truly believe that debate is essential to discovering the truth in all matters. It is with this in mind that I begin this blog.