Man is a rational animal - so at least I have been told. Throughout a long life, I have looked diligently for evidence in favor of this statement, but so far I have not had the good fortune to come across it, though I have searched in many countries spread over three continents.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Russell says he has sought evidence that humans are rational but has not found it despite extensive searching.
- In plain terms
- He admits he can't find proof that people are rational.
- What can you take from it?
- Human rationality is not empirically guaranteed.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is rationality a myth or a rare trait?
- How do we measure rational behavior?
Another view
His personal search may not reflect broader evidence.
More from Bertrand Russell
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