Portofolio for Jared Edward Harden

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to discuss a captivating topic that pervades numerous aspects of our lives – the notion that logic trumps reason in politics, religion, finance, psychology, and psychiatry. Throughout history, these fields have been influenced by various schools of thought, individuals, and circumstances. While reason plays an integral role in shaping our worldview, it is often overshadowed by the power of logic.

Starting with politics, we find ourselves amidst a world where decisions are made based on superficial gains and calculative strategies rather than genuine reason. Renowned statesman Winston Churchill once said, “The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.” This statement encapsulates the regrettable truth that many political decisions are swayed by emotion, bias, and self-interest rather than sound reasoning. Personal thoughts and ideologies often cloud the judgment of politicians, impeding the path towards logical and reasonable policies.

In the realm of religion, logic sometimes takes precedence and suppresses the realms of reason. Theologian Thomas Aquinas once stated, “To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.” This quote reflects the idea that religious belief often transcends the boundaries of logic and requires an unquestioning faith. Despite this, many religious leaders emphasize the importance of reason within faith, encouraging believers to use logical thinking when interpreting religious texts and doctrines.

Financial decisions, though seemingly grounded in reason, often fall victim to the allure of logic. Investor George Soros wisely said, “The financial markets generally are unpredictable. So that one has to have different scenarios … The idea that you can actually predict what’s going to happen contradicts my way of looking at the market.” The obsession with following trends and relying solely on numerical data can overshadow the reason behind one’s financial decisions. It is crucial to find a balance between logic and reason, recognizing that emotions and unforeseen circumstances can heavily impact the financial landscape.

Moving to the realms of psychology and psychiatry, logic often takes precedence, leaving reason behind. The field of psychology aims to understand and explain human behavior, but sometimes tends to oversimplify complex emotional experiences. Psychologist William James profoundly stated, “The emotions aren’t always immediately subject to reason, but they are always immediately subject to action.” This appropriately highlights the intricate relationship between logic and reason in the field of psychology. While logical frameworks attempt to explain emotions, it is essential to recognize the limitations of logic when dealing with the intricacies of the human mind.

In conclusion, it is undeniable that logic often triumphs over reason in various realms of our lives. However, it is important to acknowledge that reason should never be disregarded entirely. Each domain we have delved into today – politics, religion, finance, psychology, and psychiatry – can benefit from a harmonious relationship between logic and reason. As Canadian philosopher Marshall McLuhan said, “The medium is the message.” Let us understand the value of both logic and reason, recognizing their nuances, and strive for a balanced approach that encompasses the vast complexity of our world and human experience.

Thank you.