It is common for people to use the term logic as if
it is synonymous with rational thinking. Rationality consists of scientific
cognition and cognitive reflection. Logic is a component of scientific
cognition, but logic alone does not mean rationality. Cognitive reflection involves
analytical thinking (a component of Type 2 processing) that reflects overriding
fast, incorrect thinking responses.
Stanovich asserts that there at least 2 common myths associated with rationality 1. That there is not much
more to rational thinking than logical thinking
2. That emotions are inherently irrational
"Dictionary definitions of rationality tend to be rather
lame and unspecific (“the state or quality of being in accord with reason”),
and some critics who wish to downplay the importance of rationality have
promulgated a caricature of rationality that involves restricting its
definition to not more than the ability to do the syllogistic reasoning
problems that are encountered in Philosophy 101" (Hale, 2018 )
Logicians study the structure of argument in the form
of syllogisms. A syllogism is laid out as a list of premises and a conclusion
that may or may not follow from premises. A syllogism is valid if conclusion necessarily
follows from the premises. When the syllogism is invalid the conclusion can be
false even if the premises are true. Syllogistic reasoning is often difficult
and response is heavily influenced by wording of syllogism. The validity of syllogism
depends on the form, not on the specific terms being used. Consider the following- is it valid?
"If it rains, Judy takes the train
Judy took the train today.
Therefore it rained."
Baron, 2008- Thinking
and Deciding
The above syllogism looks good? However, Judy might
also take the train when it snows or might take the train for other reasons;
thus, the syllogism is invalid. Syllogisms involve formal logic; they are not a
complete theory of thinking, and only a portion of critical thinking / rational
thinking. It is reasonable to suggest that one of, if not the biggest myth about
rationality is that rationality is synonymous with logic.
Suggested reading:
Emotion influences rationality