RATIONALIZE AWAY Meaning and
Definition
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The term "rationalize away" refers to the mental process of justifying or excusing a belief, action, or decision by constructing a seemingly logical explanation that may be far-fetched or illogical. It involves finding or creating logical-sounding reasons to avoid or dismiss opposing arguments or conflicting evidence. When someone rationalizes away, they are attempting to convince themselves or others that their viewpoint or behavior is reasonable, even if it may not withstand critical analysis.
To rationalize away is often a defense mechanism used to alleviate the cognitive dissonance that arises when faced with conflicts between one's beliefs, attitudes, or actions. By presenting logical-sounding justifications, individuals can maintain a sense of coherence and reduce the discomfort caused by the dissonance.
However, rationalizing away can lead to self-deception or denial of reality. It may involve distorting information, ignoring inconvenient facts, or downplaying the significance of opposing viewpoints. The process of rationalizing away can prevent individuals from critically examining their own beliefs or actions and hinder personal growth or change.
In summary, to rationalize away is to employ logical-sounding explanations to defend or justify one's beliefs or actions, even if they may not stand up to scrutiny. It is a psychological mechanism that allows individuals to cope with cognitive dissonance but can hinder self-awareness and objective decision-making.
Common Misspellings for RATIONALIZE AWAY
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Etymology of RATIONALIZE AWAY
The word "rationalize" can be traced back to the Latin word "rationalis", which means "of reason". It entered the English language in the 17th century and originally meant "to explain or interpret something in a logical manner".
The addition of "away" to "rationalize" is used figuratively to describe the act of justifying or making excuses for something in order to alleviate any guilt or unease. It suggests the idea of dismissing or eliminating any reservations or doubts through the use of rational thinking or reasoning.
Similar spelling words for RATIONALIZE AWAY
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