Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason" suggests a critical observation about human behavior and decision-making processes. At its core, it reflects on the distinction between two fundamental modes of human cognition: sense and reason.
Sense refers to the immediate sensory perceptions and emotional responses that individuals experience in their daily lives. It encompasses our reactions to the world around us—what we see, hear, feel, and desire. Sense is visceral and often driven by instinctual impulses and emotional reactions. It is the realm of immediate gratification, where decisions are made based on what feels right or pleasurable in the moment.
In contrast, reason involves a more deliberate and analytical approach to understanding and interacting with the world. It requires critical thinking, logical deduction, and the consideration of long-term consequences. Reason enables individuals to weigh options, anticipate outcomes, and make decisions that align with broader goals or principles, rather than fleeting desires.
The quote implies that for many people, the sway of sense—driven by immediate sensory experiences and emotional impulses—often dominates their decision-making processes. This inclination can lead individuals to prioritize short-term gains or pleasures over long-term benefits or rational considerations. It suggests a tendency towards impulsivity and gratification-seeking behavior, rather than thoughtful reflection and strategic planning.
Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition and the challenges individuals face in balancing sense and reason. While sense provides immediacy and emotional fulfillment, reason offers clarity, foresight, and the potential for more informed choices. The tension between these two modes of cognition underscores the complexity of human decision-making and the constant negotiation between instinctual desires and rational thought.
Moreover, the observation that "most men" (or people in general) tend to lean towards sense over reason raises questions about societal norms, cultural influences, and psychological factors that shape individual behaviors. It prompts reflection on how societal values, peer pressure, and personal experiences may contribute to the prevalence of sense-driven decision-making patterns.
In essence, the quote challenges us to consider the interplay between our immediate sensory experiences and our capacity for reasoned judgment. It encourages introspection into our own decision-making processes and invites us to strive for a balance where both sense and reason inform our actions harmoniously, leading to decisions that are not only gratifying in the moment but also thoughtful and beneficial in the long term.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason." is often attributed to Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
A notable historical example that illustrates the quote "Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason" can be drawn from the events surrounding the French Revolution of 1789. Prior to the Revolution, French society was heavily stratified, with an aristocracy living in opulence while the common people, or the Third Estate, faced extreme hardship. The prevailing sense of dissatisfaction among the common people was driven by acute economic hardship, high taxes, and a lack of political representation, which reflected a lived reality more than a reasoned approach to governance.
The Revolution's early stages were characterized by a surge of revolutionary fervor and actions that were driven more by immediate sensibilities and collective grievances than by careful, rational consideration of long-term consequences. The storming of the Bastille, for instance, was not merely a strategic or well-planned military action but a spontaneous outburst of frustration and a symbolic gesture of resistance against oppressive rule. This act of rebellion was driven by the sense of urgency and injustice felt by the revolutionaries, rather than by a reasoned strategy for achieving political change.
As the Revolution progressed, the Reign of Terror, led by figures such as Maximilien Robespierre, further exemplified this principle. The radical measures and widespread executions were not always grounded in rational political or ethical reasoning but rather in the emotional and sensational drive to purge perceived enemies and solidify revolutionary ideals. The chaotic and often irrational aspects of this period highlight how people's actions can be swayed more by their immediate sense of injustice and fear than by reasoned deliberation.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In real-life scenarios, the quote "Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason" can be applied to various situations where emotional responses and immediate sensations overshadow careful reasoning. For instance, consider how people often make financial decisions. Many individuals are influenced by current market trends, advertisements, or peer pressure, rather than conducting a thorough analysis of their financial situation and making reasoned investments.
For example, during periods of economic boom, people may be tempted to invest heavily in high-risk stocks or properties, driven by the sense of opportunity and the fear of missing out on potential gains. This sense-driven behavior often leads to speculative bubbles. When the market corrects itself, those who acted on immediate sense rather than reasoned analysis may suffer significant financial losses.
Similarly, in everyday life, emotional reactions can drive decision-making processes. A person might impulsively buy an expensive item after a particularly stressful day, seeking immediate gratification rather than considering their long-term financial goals and needs. This behavior reflects living according to sense—reacting to immediate feelings—rather than employing reasoned judgment to make more sustainable choices.
Overall, the quote serves as a reminder to pause and apply reason when making decisions, especially in situations where emotional responses might lead to hasty or imprudent actions. It encourages individuals to balance their immediate sensations with thoughtful consideration to avoid potential pitfalls and make more rational and beneficial choices.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
