OVERRATIONALIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Overrationalization refers to the excessive reliance on rational thinking and logical reasoning when making decisions or evaluating situations, often to the extent that it neglects or dismisses emotional, intuitive, or creative aspects. It is a cognitive bias that places an overwhelming emphasis on rationalization at the expense of other essential factors influencing human thought and behavior.
Individuals prone to overrationalization tend to approach problems or complex issues with a singular focus on finding logical explanations, often ignoring or downplaying intuitive insights or emotional considerations. They may become too fixated on seeking objective evidence, proof, or data-driven justifications, disregarding the subjective and nuanced elements that are inherent to many human experiences.
This tendency towards overrationalization can lead to a reductionist approach, where complex situations or phenomena are oversimplified or reduced to a purely rational framework. It can limit creativity, paralyze decision-making processes, and hinder personal growth or interpersonal relationships as emotions and intuition are often integral parts of these processes. Consequently, individuals may struggle to adapt to novel situations or understand the nuanced motivations of others.
It is important to note that rational thinking is valuable and necessary in many circumstances, but overrationalization occurs when it becomes the dominant or exclusive mode of cognitive processing, neglecting other valuable sources of information, such as emotions, intuitions, or cultural perspectives. By recognizing this cognitive bias, individuals can strive for a more balanced and holistic approach to decision-making and understanding the world around them.
Common Misspellings for OVERRATIONALIZATION
- iverrationalization
- kverrationalization
- lverrationalization
- pverrationalization
- 0verrationalization
- 9verrationalization
- ocerrationalization
- oberrationalization
- ogerrationalization
- oferrationalization
- ovwrrationalization
- ovsrrationalization
- ovdrrationalization
- ovrrrationalization
- ov4rrationalization
- ov3rrationalization
- oveerationalization
- ovedrationalization
- ovefrationalization
- ovetrationalization
Etymology of OVERRATIONALIZATION
The word "overrationalization" is formed by combining the prefix "over-" which denotes excess or exaggeration, with the word "rationalization". The root word "rationalization" is formed from the noun "rationale", which originates from the Latin word "rationālis" meaning "rational" or "reasonable".
The suffix "-ize" is added to "rational" to form the verb "rationalize", which means to justify or explain behavior or decisions with logical or rational reasons, often to avoid guilt or responsibility.
When the prefix "over-" is attached to "rationalization", it indicates an excessive or exaggerated use of rationalizing, going beyond what is considered reasonable or healthy. Thus, "overrationalization" refers to the act of excessively or compulsively rationalizing thoughts, actions, or emotions.
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