Feelings and emotions play a fundamental role in shaping our perceptions and beliefs, often preceding rational thought. When a negative emotion such as loneliness is experienced, it can lead to cognitive biases that reinforce one’s perspective. This mechanism can create justifications for these beliefs, allowing individuals to see the world through a lens influenced by their initial emotional experiences. Essentially, our logic often follows our emotions, highlighting the disconnect between feeling and rational reasoning. Understanding this can illuminate why people engage in mental gymnastics when confronted with opposing views.