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Logic - Where is it when we want it?

Writer's picture: Dr Kylie Hutchings MangionDr Kylie Hutchings Mangion

The human brain is a complex organ with various regions responsible for different functions, including emotions and logical reasoning.


Sometimes, situations or emotions can override the logical part of the brain, leading to decisions or actions that might not seem entirely rational. Here are a few reasons why the logical part of the brain may not always kick in:

  1. Emotional Responses: Strong emotions, such as fear, anger, or excitement, can activate the brain's emotional centers and sometimes override the logical thinking areas. This can lead to impulsive or irrational decisions.

  2. Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress or anxiety can impact cognitive functions, including logical reasoning. When the brain is under stress, it tends to focus on immediate threats and survival, often at the expense of long-term planning and rational decision-making.

  3. Lack of Information: Logical thinking relies on accurate and relevant information. If you don't have all the necessary facts or have incomplete information about a situation, your logical thinking might be hindered.

  4. Biases and Heuristics: Humans use mental shortcuts (heuristics) to make decisions quickly, but these shortcuts can sometimes lead to cognitive biases. These biases can distort logical thinking and lead to flawed judgments.

  5. Habitual Responses: If you've developed certain habits or patterns of behavior over time, these automatic responses might override deliberate logical thinking, especially if the situation triggers a habitual reaction.

  6. Peer Influence and Social Pressure: Social factors can also influence decision-making. If you're in a group setting or facing pressure from others, the desire to conform or please others might override your logical thinking.

  7. Fatigue and Mental Exhaustion: Mental fatigue can impair cognitive functions, including logical reasoning. When you're tired, your brain's capacity to process information and make rational decisions decreases.

  8. Personal Beliefs and Values: Sometimes, personal beliefs and values can strongly influence how you perceive a situation and the decisions you make, even if those decisions might not align with strict logic.

Remember that humans are complex beings, and decision-making is influenced by a combination of emotions, cognitive processes, past experiences, and external factors.


It's not uncommon for individuals to experience moments when their logical thinking seems to be overshadowed by other factors.


Therapy may assist in developing self-awareness, practicing mindfulness, and taking steps to manage emotions can help improve the balance between emotions and logical thinking.

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