Irrationality is the exclusive preserve of humans as among all creatures only we have the power to rationalise, that being the art of packaging patently irrational as apparently rational.

Irrationality is the exclusive preserve of humans as among all creatures only we have the power to rationalise, that being the art of packaging patently irrational as apparently rational.

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Humans possess a unique cognitive ability that sets us apart from all other species: the capacity to rationalize. This creative and complex mental process enables us to interpret, justify, and even reframe behaviors, beliefs, and decisions that might, on the surface, seem irrational or illogical. The act of rationalization acts as a psychological tool, allowing individuals to preserve self-esteem, maintain social harmony, or uphold certain worldviews in the face of contradictory evidence or irrational tendencies. While this capacity can serve as a protective mechanism, it also has darker implications. It can lead to the manipulation of facts, distortion of reality, and the reinforcement of biases—effectively packaging irrationality in a manner that appears rational, even compelling. Such a process underscores a profound aspect of human nature: our reluctance or inability to confront certain truths outright, instead choosing to craft narratives that make sense within our subjective frameworks. The acknowledgment of this ability can foster greater self-awareness, encouraging us to scrutinize our justifications and seek genuine understanding rather than comforting illusions. Recognizing our power to rationalize is both a caution and an empowerment—cautioning us about the biases and distortions we may accept, but also empowering us to challenge these tendencies and strive for genuine rationality. This understanding shines a light on the complexities of human psychology and highlights the importance of critical thinking as a virtue in navigating a world filled with both rational and irrational elements.

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July 25, 2025

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