"The path of least resistance and least trouble is a mental rut already made. It requires troublesome work to undertake the alternation of old beliefs"

This quote from John Dewey recommends that it is much easier for individuals to stay with their existing beliefs and ways of thinking, even if they are not necessarily right or practical. It takes effort and pain to challenge and change these beliefs. Essentially, it is much easier to follow a familiar course rather than taking the road less taken a trip, which might need more effort and change.