Why Do Some People Insist on Living and Thinking Illogically?

The human condition is multifaceted and often complex. It is a well-known truism that people, in general, are not always logically inclined. This observation raises interesting questions: why do some individuals persist in living and thinking illogically, and what does it mean to think without logic?

The Dunning-Kruger Effect: Dumb People’s Blind Spot

One of the most notable findings in the field of psychology is the Dunning-Kruger effect. According to this phenomenon, individuals who lack competence in a given domain often have a deceptive level of confidence. They erroneously believe they are better at something than they actually are, making them unaware of their own limitations. This blind spot can be particularly detrimental when it comes to logical thinking.

Another interesting aspect of this effect is that these individuals often cannot recognize their own logical fallacies. They are so unaware of their shortcomings that they fail to differentiate between their illogical thoughts and sound reasoning. This can lead to a vicious cycle where their irrational beliefs are perpetuated, leading to a further entrenchment in illogical thinking.

Emotions vs Logic: A Consequence of Conditioning

The distinction between emotional thinking and logical thinking is often blurred. Emotions and instincts often guide our actions more than we realize. Emotions are powerful and can override rational thought in favor of immediate gratification or comfort. However, logic plays a critical role in long-term decision-making and critical thinking.

Logic can sometimes be seen as a straitjacket for the mind. It imposes strict rules and conditions that, while beneficial in some contexts, can limit creativity and flexibility. When a person is conditioned to use a specific way of thinking, any deviation from this norm can be seen as illogical. For instance, consider an individual who has been trained to use a particular method of eating. If they observe someone eating differently, their logical mind will perceive it as aberrant, even though the outcome may be the same.

The difference between an educated and uneducated individual can often be attributed to conditioning. Both may perform the same action, but the uneducated person may lack the necessary experience and knowledge to see beyond it. This conditioning does not mean that logic is lacking; rather, it indicates a different way of thinking that has been reinforced over time.

Addressing Logical Thinking through Knowledge and Emotions

It is crucial to understand that people do not choose to live or think illogically. What they perceive as logical often aligns perfectly with their beliefs and experiences, making it difficult for them to see past their own filters. In the realm of intelligent human behavior, individuals with an IQ below 140 may be driven primarily by their emotions, which rarely incorporate logical analysis. Conversely, those with higher IQs tend to use both emotions and logic, leading to more balanced and rational decision-making.

Incorporating common sense into logical thinking can be challenging. Common sense is inherently linked to logic, but thinking without it can serve as a learning tool in physical activities. In sports, instinct and muscle memory often take over when quick reflexes and decisions are required. Quick reactions are not always a result of thought but rather a reaction to instinct. This can be advantageous in situations of perceived threat but may not be accessible to everyone.

In summary, while logical thinking is essential for rational decision-making, it is not the only form of intelligence. Emotional thinking, driven by instinct and muscle memory, plays a crucial role in certain aspects of human behavior. By acknowledging these different forms of intelligence and understanding the impact of conditioning, we can foster a more balanced and comprehensive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.