Philosophy For Our Times
How important is rationality to humans? PART 1 | Stuart Hameroff, Subrena Smith, Paul Bloom
Dec 10, 2024
Join philosophers Subrena Smith and Paul Bloom as they dive into the complex relationship between rationality and intuition. Smith critiques evolutionary psychology's reliance on reason, while Bloom defends rationality's crucial role. They explore how consciousness interacts with various cognitive states, including flow experiences during peak performance. The discussion raises thought-provoking questions about balancing rational thought with personal narratives and emotional insights, especially in relation to societal decision-making.
25:29
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Quick takeaways
- Rationality is important but should be balanced with intuition and other forms of thinking for better decision-making outcomes.
- The interplay between emotion and rationality emphasizes the need for inclusive dialogues that integrate emotional insights and analytical reasoning.
Deep dives
Exploring the Role of Rationality
The emphasis on rational thinking is debated regarding its necessity in decision-making and problem-solving. Some experts argue that while rationality plays a crucial role, it should not overshadow other forms of thinking, such as intuitive or unconscious thought. For instance, studies show that individuals in 'flow states'—where focused attention leads to heightened effectiveness—often outperform when they set aside deliberation for a while. This suggests that a balance between conscious reasoning and instinctive thought could enhance overall decision-making capabilities.
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