This quote suggests that when our desire to believe in something comes into conflict with rational thought, it’s often the desire to believe that prevails. Essentially, our emotions and beliefs can override our logical thinking abilities, especially when we strongly desire a certain outcome or reality. This can be seen in various aspects of life, such as religion, politics, or personal relationships where people often hold onto their beliefs, even when faced with logical or factual contradictions.
In today’s world, we can see this concept manifesting in the form of ‘confirmation bias,’ where people tend to favor information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs or values, often disregarding factual evidence that contradicts them. This is evident in polarized political environments, where individuals may ignore or discredit factual information that doesn’t align with their political beliefs.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to be aware of our own biases and the potential for our desires and beliefs to cloud our rational judgment. It encourages us to strive for objectivity, to question our beliefs, and to be open to evidence that contradicts them. This can lead to more informed, rational decision-making and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It’s about finding a balance between our emotional instincts and our rational thinking abilities.