Why Reason and Emotions Collide?

In the intricate tapestry of human experience, two powerful forces often find themselves at odds: reason and emotions. While reason strives for logic and objectivity, emotions yearn for passion and subjectivity. But why do these two vital aspects of our being seem to perpetually clash?

Reason, the cognitive compass that guides our decision-making, seeks to unravel the complexities of the world through logical deductions and empirical evidence. It demands a clear, calculated understanding of events, devoid of biases and undue influences. On the other hand, emotions, the pulsating rhythm of our inner selves, derive from our personal experiences, cultural influences, and evolutionary predispositions. They can drive us to act impulsively, often clouding our judgment with their intensity

Additionally, societal and cultural norms play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of reason and emotions. While some cultures prioritize collective harmony and emotional expression, others emphasize individual autonomy and logical reasoning, leading to diverse perspectives on how these forces should interact.

History is replete with examples where reason and emotions have collided, shaping the course of human events. From political revolutions fuelled by impassioned ideals to conflicts born out of deep-seated prejudices, the interplay between reason and emotions has often defined the trajectory of societies and individuals alike.

The human brain, with its intricate neural network, often struggles to balance the demands of reason and emotion. Neuroscientists have shown that certain regions of the brain responsible for rational thought can be overridden by the emotional centres during moments of heightened stress or excitement. Literally hijacking our reason. We have all been there at least once, and learned that acting out of emotions can be ‘risky’. And we learned that in order to do the right decision, we have to keep the reason ‘in charge’ isn’t it?

Can you remember a time when your emotions controlled you, and you were out of control?

Can you remember a time, when you RE-acted in a way that doesn’t help you? Maybe you said something, or you have done something that you regret? Perhaps there was a specific event that happened, where you learned to distrust your emotions completely.

If you took that decision, and it turned out to be right that’s great…

What do you do, when there is no enough information to make an informed decision?

What do you do when, you make a decision with reason only, and you are not happy about it? Do you learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable? Which coping mechanism are you using to shut down your heart and walk with your head first?

In the quest for a fulfilling and balanced life, it's crucial to recognize that reason and emotions need not perpetually stand at odds. By cultivating emotional intelligence and honing critical thinking skills, we can strive for a symbiotic relationship between the two. Understanding the origins of our emotions and being mindful of their impact on our decision-making can lead to more informed and empathetic choices.

Ultimately, the fusion of reason and emotions is not a battle to be won, but a delicate harmony to be achieved. By acknowledging their complementary roles in our lives, we can aspire to lead lives that are not only rational but also rich with empathy, understanding, and compassion.

Start working on this harmony, by starting with being self-aware, aware of where your emotions are clouding your judgement, and where your judgement is ignoring important cues from your emotions, and then make your decisions aligning both your mind and heart.

Reem Stateyeh