Do not believe in anything (simply)

because you have heard it.

Do not believe in traditions because they

have been handed down for many generations.

Do not believe in anything because it is

spoken and rumoured by many.

Do not believe in anything (simply)because

it is found in your religious books.

Do not believe in anything merelely on the authority

of your teachers & elders.

But after observations & analysis,

when you find anything that agrees with reason

and is conducive to the good & benefit of one & all

then accept it & live upto it .

Buddha

( Angutra Nikaya , vol 1, 188-193 )