Tools of Cognition

 

The ferociously pro-reason philosopher Ayn Rand says: "Emotions are not tools of cognition." But they are. Not scientific or exact tools. But lightning-quick, profound, often-strong, and important ones.

However rational you are, almost always you should trust your instincts or your gut. You should pay close attention to these subconscious feelings, test them on a continuous basis, and try to determine how often these vague but poweful impressions prove to be true, or at least helpful. When it comes to comprehending the nature of reality, and what actions to undertake, rational calculation alone isn’t always enough.

Your gut is highly suggestive and can often tell you a lot as to whether you’re on the right or wrong path – as to whether triumph or disaster looms. These subconscious emotions and impressions can and should guide much of your thinking and behavior. They’re useful and often invaluable tools regarding what to think about and why. Hence, despite what Ayn Rand claims, emotions are formidable and crucial tools of cognition.