346 Quotes About Rationality

We rely upon both instinctive and learned behavior in order to survive. Thinking and instinct are interrelated, but there is less difference between instinctive behaviors and rational thought than many people acknowledge.

We are sometimes reminded that we are not always rational, when someone spits as a response to a foul smell.

Of course, I rationalize the fear. I realize it’s not real, that my house isn’t burning down, that the deer aren’t going to kill me.

But it was important to be rational at all times, not just when calm.

Elinor agreed to it all, for she did not think he deserved the compliment of rational opposition.

Rationality and common sense never goes out of fashion.

Leaders console the world with their speeches, heroes console the world with their actions.

Truth has nothing to do with the conclusion, and everything to do with the methodology.

Seeing that our birth involves the blending of these two things—the body, on the one hand, that we share with animals, and, on the other hand, rationality and intelligence, that we share with the gods—most of us incline to this former relationship, wretched and dead though it is, while only a few to the one that is divine and blessed.