I think the OP is attempting to justify NOT wearing a helmet by saying that wearing a helmet turns people into daredevils. While yes, wearing protection does often give my mind peace of mine when I'm about to do something stupid (or even going down a trail slightly faster than before, as is human nature), it ALSO protects against completely unforeseen things, like animals or a rock sliding out from under your tire.

I believe that not wearing a helmet is fine, provided you're traveling a very well known, short, safe path that you're not traveling very fast. However, any other time, it's not worth it.

But, to each their own. If it's legal to go helmet-less, then do it. You'll probably crash eventually and change your mind. Crashing on your bike isn't a matter of if, but a matter of when.