Meaning: The quote by Michael Lewis highlights the idea of entrenched beliefs and the resistance to change, particularly within the context of baseball. This quote reflects the inherent bias and stubbornness that can be found in individuals, including sports announcers and the media, when it comes to their opinions and knowledge about a specific subject. Lewis suggests that even when presented with evidence that contradicts their beliefs, these individuals will persist in thinking that they are right.

The quote can be interpreted in a broader sense as well, beyond just the realm of baseball. It speaks to the human tendency to hold onto our beliefs even in the face of contradictory evidence. It is a comment on the difficulty of changing someone's mind, especially when they are deeply invested in a particular point of view.

In the context of baseball, the quote may be referring to the resistance of sports announcers and the sports press to accept new statistics or methodologies that challenge traditional ways of understanding the game. For example, the use of advanced analytics in baseball has been a source of contention, with some traditionalists resisting the shift towards a more data-driven approach to the sport.

This quote also touches on the idea of cognitive dissonance, where individuals may experience discomfort when confronted with information that contradicts their existing beliefs. Instead of adjusting their beliefs in light of new evidence, they may double down on their original stance, as Lewis suggests.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the broader issue of confirmation bias, where people tend to seek out and interpret information in a way that confirms their preexisting beliefs. This bias can be particularly strong in the realm of sports, where fans and experts alike often hold strong emotional attachments to their teams and players.

In a larger societal context, the quote speaks to the challenge of fostering open-mindedness and critical thinking. It suggests that even in the face of compelling evidence, individuals may cling to their existing beliefs, making it difficult to effect change or progress.

In conclusion, Michael Lewis's quote about people's entrenched beliefs in the context of baseball serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in changing minds and challenging established viewpoints. It sheds light on the human tendency to hold onto beliefs, even in the face of contradictory evidence, and it encourages us to critically examine our own beliefs and remain open to new perspectives.