CONSCIOUSLY IRRATIONAL
The importance placed on rationality, logic and objectivity, especially in contemporary society, oftentimes unintentionally overlooks the value of being subjective and irrational. The first example of irrationality and illogic contributing to the world is through the arts. Theatre, novels, cinema, paintings, explain more about the human condition than logical rationale could ever comprehend to.
Furthermore, the importance of this exploration of the human condition only attainable through irrational means, should not be taken lightly. There are unexplainable phenomena implicit throughout our entire existence, for example, emotions. We cannot entirely comprehend the intricacies of our feelings, however, over history, the arts have offered a sophisticated exploration, through endless depictions of different people, circumstances, feelings, through different means, whether it be novel, cinema, painting, music, theatre.
Irrationality also contributes significantly to society through developing individualism. Inherent within our society, is a range of different opinions, ways of living and personalities. They cannot all be, by definition, completely rational or logical. Therefore, this beautiful concoction of different perspectives and viewpoints, that make life interesting, are powered by irrationality, illogicality, and subjectivism. If every individual was entirely logical, rational and objective, the arts would diminish, thinking would become almost exclusively unilateral and people would seldom disagree. Life would steer towards an increasingly bland, mundane existence.
With respect to the aforementioned points, however, it is imperative that consciousness in our personal irrationality is maintained. Where possible, we should attempt to identify situations where our irrationality is at force. We should not subdue thoughts or actions (unless they are tangibly harmful) that we identify as irrational, however, it is advantageous to remain conscious in this fact. This consciousness encourages and develops critical-thinking and empathy.
By harnessing your ability to identify when you are being irrational (even at times where this irrationality is necessary) is to promote self-reflection and subsequently, self-development.
