Reason and emotions are often seen as opposing forces, with reason being associated with logic, and emotions being seen as irrational and unpredictable. However, this perception is a misconception. In reality, reason and emotions are not opposed, but are allies that improve our understanding of the world.
Emotions play a crucial role in our decision-making process and help us to evaluate and prioritize information. They help us to identify and respond to important events, and provide us with the motivation to take action. Without them, we would be unable to quickly detect significant events, and would be less likely to act on them. Imagine if you had to reason your way through everything — your life would quickly grind to a halt.
On the other hand, reason helps us to evaluate and interpret information objectively and make logical decisions based on evidence. It helps us to critically assess our emotions and understand why we feel a certain way. When reason and emotions work together, they can help us better predict the world and make better decisions.
Instructional Material
Cohort Activity
Arriving at better estimates of how-the-world-is can diminish feelings or intensify them. Sometimes we run away from strong feelings by denying the facts, by flinching away from the view of the world that gave rise to the powerful emotion. If so, then as you train yourself not to deny facts, your feelings will become stronger.
— Feeling Rational, by Eliezer Yudkowsky
Today's activities will focus on feeling and acknowledging emotions, from the strong to the subtle. To help, here is an "emotion wheel", which we will reference as we dig deeper and deeper throughout the session: