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About this quote

What does it mean?
Humans claim to be rational but react emotionally when asked to follow reason.
In plain terms
People say they are logical but get angry when expected to act logically.
What can you take from it?
Human behavior often defies claims of pure rationality.

Where it applies

  • debates
  • negotiations
  • everyday interactions

Putting it to work

  • expect emotional reactions
  • be patient
  • understand psychology

Questions to consider

  • Are we truly rational?
  • Why do emotions override logic?

Another view

Reason can sometimes provoke defensiveness as a self-protective instinct.

More from Orson Welles

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  2. My doctor has advised me to give up those intimate little dinners for four. Unless there are three people eating with me.

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  3. I hate television. I hate it as much as I hate peanuts. But I can't stop eating peanuts.

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