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Emotions Quote by Daniel Kahneman

“Social scientists in the 1970s broadly accepted two ideas about human nature. First, people are generally rational, and their thinking is normally sound. Second, emotions such as fear, affection, and hatred explain most of the occasions on which people depart from rationality.” quote by Daniel Kahneman
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““Social scientists in the 1970s broadly accepted two ideas about human nature. First, people are generally rational, and their thinking is normally sound. Second, emotions such as fear, affection, and hatred explain most of the occasions on which people depart from rationality.””

Daniel Kahneman

About This Quote

Source Book: Thinking, Fast and Slow, 2011

Human behavior is often seen as rational, but emotions like fear, affection, and hatred frequently drive irrational decisions.

In simple terms: People think rationally, but emotions often cause irrational actions.

Key Takeaway

Recognize emotional influences on decisions.

Themes

rationality emotion psychology decision making

Mood

analytical thoughtful critical

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • financial choices
  • political voting
  • risk assessment

Key Concepts

cognitive bias affective neuroscience behavioral economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have emotions helped you make a better choice?
  • Can rational analysis coexist with feeling?
A Different Perspective

Emotions can be constructive and not merely sources of error.

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