The Most Common Illogical Behaviors Humans Exhibit
Every person, at some point, engages in behaviors that are unreasonable, illogical, or even harmful to themselves and others. These behaviors, while common, stem from a variety of sources, including fear, societal pressures, and personal shortcomings. This article delves into the most common illogical behaviors humans exhibit, exploring why we do them and how understanding these behaviors can lead to healthier, more mindful actions.
Worrying About Things We Can't Change
One of the most common illogical behaviors is worrying excessively about things that we cannot change or that are beyond our control. This includes concerns about future needs such as housing, medical care, and education. People often compare themselves to others, worrying if they are good enough or smart enough to succeed. It’s a paradoxical situation where humans fret over what is beyond our reach, while neglecting more immediate and actionable concerns.
Overpopulation and Environmental Impact
Another illogical behavior is the unrestrained production of offspring, despite the environmental consequences. Many countries face famine conditions, yet millions of children are born every year under circumstances that might not be optimal for their upbringing. The decision to breed without proper consideration for the future implications is irrational. It takes a personal and collective responsibility to address the issue of overpopulation to ensure more living space and resources for everyone.
Social Media and Information Waste
The time wasted on platforms like Quora and other forums reading and answering ridiculous questions is another common illogical behavior. Despite this, people continue to engage in such activities, often for the sake of mental stimulation or the hope that their opinions might benefit others. This showcases a human tendency to spend time on activities that, while potentially beneficial, often result in a significant amount of wasted time.
Faith in Non-Existence
Faith in non-existent entities is a prevalent irrational behavior. People pray to deities or entities that they believe exist but have no concrete evidence to support such beliefs. This behavior often involves ignoring facts and reality in favor of wishful thinking or emotional comfort. It is a form of self-deception that can perpetuate a cycle of illogical beliefs and behaviors.
Over-Adornment and Free Will Misuse
To cater to societal norms and expectations, many individuals go through excessive makeup, wear uncomfortable and restrictive clothing, and use a plethora of beauty products, all for the world to see the 'real self.' This behavior often stems from a desire to fit in or be perceived a certain way, leading to unnecessary physical strain and emotional distress.
Social Gossip and Backbiting
Another common illogical behavior is engaging in social gossip and backbiting. People gather to discuss and criticize others, finding joy in their misfortunes and feeling superior. This behavior is not only harmful to the target but also to the gossiper, as it can foster a culture of negativity and superficiality. Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, viewed such behavior as a sin, emphasizing that sinners should not focus on the sins of others but rather on their own actions.
Misuse of Emotions and Superstition
The irrational misuse of emotions and superstitious beliefs is another prevalent behavior. People often act on emotional impulses rather than rational thought, leading to poor decisions. The belief in good luck and bad luck, the idea that the world is just or unjust based on external events, and the constant comparison with others' successes and failures are all symptoms of this irrational behavior.
Understanding these illogical behaviors and their underlying causes can help individuals make more rational and informed decisions. Addressing these behaviors can lead to a healthier, more balanced life, both personally and collectively. By being more mindful of our actions and motivations, we can strive to make more rational and ethical choices.