The role of reason is to justify decisions made by intuition from "summary" of The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt
The human mind is a complex and mysterious entity, capable of both rational thought and intuitive feeling. When it comes to making decisions, our intuition often plays a significant role, guiding us towards a particular choice without conscious deliberation. This intuitive process is fast, automatic, and based on emotional responses that are deeply ingrained within us. Intuition can be seen as a powerful force that drives our decision-making, drawing on past experiences, social norms, and cultural influences to guide us in the right direction. However, intuition is not always foolproof, as it can be influenced by biases, emotions, and cognitive shortcuts that may lead us astray. In order to make sense of our intuitive decisions and justify them to ourselves and others, we turn to reason. Reason serves as a post hoc rationalization for the decisions we have already made intuitively, providing logical justifications and explanations that help us make sense of our choices. This process allows us to maintain a sense of coherence and consistency in our beliefs and actions, even when they are driven by gut feelings rather than conscious thought. In a sense, reason acts as a lawyer for our intuition, building a case to support the decisions that have already been made. While reason can sometimes override intuition and lead us to more carefully considered choices, it often serves as a servant to our intuitive impulses, finding ways to make sense of decisions that were made quickly and emotionally. This dynamic interplay between intuition and reason is a fundamental aspect of human decision-making, shaping our beliefs, actions, and relationships in profound ways. In the grand scheme of things, the role of reason is not to dictate our decisions but rather to make sense of the choices we have already made based on intuition. This nuanced relationship between intuition and reason highlights the complexity of the human mind and the intricate ways in which we navigate the world around us. By understanding this dynamic interplay, we can gain deeper insights into our own behavior and thought processes, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
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