What is emotional thinking?

Emotional reasoning is a cognitive process affected significantly by emotions and sentiments. When a person thinks emotionally, they tend to make choices, fix issues, or interpret circumstances based on their emotional condition rather than reasoning or reason.

In emotional thinking, the emotional reaction takes precedence over the rational one, and feelings, rather than facts or proof, can motivate behaviour. For example, rather than contemplating the repercussions and weighing alternatives objectively, a person may make a decision based on dread or anger.

Emotional thinking is a natural and typical part of human thought, and feelings can provide useful knowledge and direction when making decisions. Excessive emotional reasoning, on the other hand, can lead to prejudiced, irrational, or impulsive behaviour.

What is rational thinking?

Rational thinking is a way of reasoning that is founded on logic, reason, and proof. It entails the ability to critically evaluate information, make good decisions, and draw conclusions based on proof and facts.

Several important characteristics distinguish rational reasoning, including:

  • Objectivity:

 Rational thinking entails viewing information objectively and without allowing personal prejudices or feelings to impair judgement.

  • Clarity:

Clear, concentrated thinking that is not obscured by extraneous or distracting information is required for rational thinking.

  • Helps in making choices:

Evidence-based reasoning entails using proof and facts to back up conclusions and make choices.

  • Logic:

 Using logical reasoning to connect concepts and make inferences is what rational thinking is all about.

  • Open-mindedness:

 When making choices, rational thinking requires being receptive to new information and contemplating numerous viewpoints.

  • Problem-solving:

Using critical thinking abilities to solve issues and make choices is an example of rational thinking.

Overall, logical thinking is a valuable ability that can assist people in making sensible choices, solving issues, and navigating complicated circumstances in a straightforward and objective way.

What portion of the brain is in charge of logical thought?

The prefrontal cortex is the portion of the brain responsible for logical thought, decision-making, and problem-solving. This brain region is situated in the front of the brain, just behind the brow, and is one of the last regions of the brain to completely develop. The prefrontal cortex is in charge of many cognitive functions, including attention, working memory, planning, judgement, impulse control, and rational reasoning. Damage to the prefrontal cortex can lead to impairments in these cognitive processes, such as poor decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

Rational thinking vs Logical thinking

Rational and logical reasoning are ideas that are connected but different.

The capacity to think analytically, evaluate data, and make choices based on reason and proof is referred to as rational thinking. Rational thinking frequently includes contemplating numerous viewpoints, objectively scrutinising data, and drawing conclusions based on logical analysis.

Logical reasoning, on the other hand, is the capacity to deliberate in an organised, systematic manner. Logical thinking entails using logic concepts such as deduction and induction to reach a determination or fix an issue.

In general, rational thinking refers to a wider range of cognitive processes that include both logical and non-logical reasoning, whereas logical thinking refers to a specific type of reasoning process that adheres to certain norms and principles.

While both rational and logical thinking are important for making sound decisions, rational thinking is a broader concept that encompasses a broader range of cognitive processes, whereas logical thinking is a specific type of reasoning process that adheres to certain logic principles and rules.

How to think rationally

Thinking logically entails a variety of brain processes that can be honed and improved over time. Here are some pointers to help you consider more clearly:

  • Gather as much information as possible before making a choice or forming a determination. This may entail conducting study, asking inquiries, or consulting with specialists.
  • Examine the evidence: Consider the facts honestly, without allowing personal prejudices or feelings to sway your decision. Examine the proof for correctness, dependability, and significance.
  • Identify any preconceptions or biases that may be affecting your reasoning. Examine your beliefs and look for proof to back or refute them.
  • Contemplate the following alternatives: Examine various views and points of view. This allows you to assess the data objectively and reach a more educated decision.
  • Apply logic: Use logic concepts such as reasoning and induction to reach a conclusion or fix an issue. Use proof to back up your claims and prevent logical fallacies.
  • Contemplate the ramifications: Consider the possible outcomes of your choices and activities. This can assist you in making more informed choices that consider both short-term and long-term results.
  • Self-reflection: Examine your own thought processes and find places for improvement. Be open to feedback and ready to change your mind in response to new facts or viewpoints.

How to be less emotional and more logical

Being logical and less emotional entails having the ability to think analytically and rationally, as well as effectively control and moderate one's feelings. Here are some suggestions for becoming more logical and less emotional:

  • Mindfulness is the practise of paying attention to the current instant without judgement. This can assist you in becoming more conscious of your feelings and thoughts, allowing you to choose how to respond to them rather than reacting impulsively.
  • Recognize your emotional triggers: Recognize circumstances or events that tend to elicit powerful emotional responses. You can prepare yourself to react more sensibly and prevent being overcome by feelings if you are conscious of these factors.
  • Consider the evidence: Before reaching a choice or evaluating information, gather and evaluate all relevant data. This can assist you in making a more informed and rational choice as opposed to one founded purely on feelings.
  • Take a step back: When emotions are running strong, take a step back and allow yourself time to calm down. This can help you think more clearly and make more informed decisions.
  • Seek outside perspectives: Seek advice from trustworthy peers, family members, or experts. This can assist you in considering different points of view and making a more informed choice.

By employing these strategies, you can become more rational and less emotional, allowing you to make better choices based on reasoning and reason rather than feeling.