MENTAL GYMNASTICS Meaning and
Definition
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Mental gymnastics refers to the complex cognitive processes of engaging in creative and intricate thinking patterns. This term is often used metaphorically to describe the challenging mental exercises or contortions individuals go through to justify or rationalize a particular belief, opinion, or behavior, especially when faced with conflicting evidence or opposition. The analogy draws from the physical flexibility and agility required in gymnastics, where performers twist their bodies in elaborate ways. Similarly, mental gymnastics involves the rigorous mental acrobatics people undergo to maintain cognitive consistency or defend their viewpoints.
In this context, mental gymnastics may involve deploying sophisticated reasoning skills, such as logical fallacies, cherry-picking evidence, or making convoluted arguments, in order to protect or uphold one's preconceived notions or beliefs. It can also involve navigating complex moral, ethical, or philosophical dilemmas by engaging in deep introspection, critical thinking, and contemplative analysis.
While mental gymnastics can sometimes be used negatively to imply evasion or intellectual dishonesty, it can also be seen as a valuable cognitive exercise that stimulates intellectual growth, encourages open-mindedness, and enhances problem-solving skills. Engaging in mental gymnastics allows individuals to consider multiple perspectives, challenge their own biases, and explore alternative explanations, ultimately fostering intellectual development and expanding their cognitive capacities.
Common Misspellings for MENTAL GYMNASTICS
- nental gymnastics
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Etymology of MENTAL GYMNASTICS
The etymology of the phrase "mental gymnastics" can be traced back to the individual meanings of the words "mental" and "gymnastics".
1. Mental: The word "mental" derives from the Latin word "mentālis", which relates to the mind or intellect. It entered Old English as "myndel" and eventually evolved to "mental" in Middle English.
2. Gymnastics: The term "gymnastics" comes from the Greek word "gymnastikos", which means "pertaining to exercise or training". It is derived from the root word "gymnazein", meaning "to exercise naked". Originally, gymnastics referred to physical exercises done in ancient Greek gymnasiums.
