What is an Open Mind?

On several occasions I have been accused of not having an open mind. When this happens, I am generally offended, or at least I was until I realized why this was being said. It became clear when I heard someone on the radio say "People need to have a more open mind and accept others' ideas." I realized then what the problem is. These people are confusing having an open mind with agreeing with them. It seems to me that having an open mind about ideas is the same as having an open mind about food. As long as you are willing to try the food, or examine the idea, you have succeeded in having an open mind. It is not necessary to agree with the person, just as you don't have to enjoy the food.

People with a closed mind do not bother to test your idea against theirs, or even consider what you said on its own merits. This is generally the case when the person has great Faith in their idea, because they already know you are wrong, so why bother hearing you out?

So there it is, open minded means you are willing to consider the idea, close minded means you will not consider the idea, and if you automatically accept an idea as true because you think you're being open minded, you are gullible.