Reason is governed by passions and emotions from "summary" of A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume
In the course of my inquiries into the nature of human understanding, I have arrived at a most striking and seemingly contradictory conclusion: that reason, far from being the sole governor of our actions, is in fact subservient to our passions and emotions. This assertion may at first glance appear perplexing, for we are accustomed to thinking of reason as the guiding force behind our decisions and behaviors. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that our passions and emotions hold a much greater sway over our actions than we might care to admit. When we consider the various motives that drive us to act in particular ways, we find that they often stem from our feelings and desires, rather than from any rational calculation of the consequences of our actions. For example, when we are motivated to pursue pleasure or avoid pain, it is our emotions that propel us to seek out certain experiences and avoid others, rather than a careful weighing of the pros and cons. Similarly, when we are moved to act out of love, envy, or anger, it is our passions that dictate our behavior, overriding any rational considerations that might counsel restraint. Indeed, it is our passions and emotions that give color and vitality to our lives, infusing our actions with meaning and significance. Without these ...
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