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Cognitive dissonance causes us to rationalize our choices from "summary" of Predictably Rational? by Richard B. McKenzie
When we find ourselves faced with conflicting beliefs or behaviors, a psychological phenomenon known as cognitive dissonance kicks in. This discomfort arises from the inconsistency between our thoughts, attitudes, and actions, leading us to seek harmony and reduce this mental tension. One common way we do this is by rationalizing our choices, attempting to justify our decisions to align with our beliefs and values. This process of rationalization plays a crucial role in how we make sense of our decisions and actions, even when they may seem illogical or contradicting. By finding reasons or excuses that support our choices, we are able to alleviate the cognitive dissonance we experience. This allows us to maintain a sense of self-consistency and coherence, even in the face of conflicting information or beliefs. Rationalization serves as a protective mechanism for our egos, allowing us to preserve a positive self-image and defend our decisions from external scrutiny or criticism. It helps us make sense...
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