We like to believe we are rational creatures, but we are more driven by emotion. Even in intellectual affairs we tend to make up our minds first by emotion, and only then rationalize our decisions intellectually.  I call this emotional rationalism. Advertisers have known this since Moses sold the Hebrews on the idea of circumcision.

In the face of irrefutable evidence it is still quite possible to reach the wrong conclusion. See ‘emotional rationalism.’

Living without a goal opens up avenues of discovery and opportunity often missed by those with their nose to the grindstone.  All who wander are not lost.

Efficiency is a form of leverage. Many companies stripped down to their bare essentials to maximize their profit found themselves fragile and vulnerable in the face of the unexpected. (Tips to Nassim Taleb)

When unlimited information is available to everyone, then no one is responsible for knowing anything.

If there is one thing we learn from history it is that too often we do not learn from history.

In politics, as in medicine, one should revisit the diagnosis before doubling down on the treatment.

The pursuit of clarity may be noble and it may be productive, but don’t expect it to win you many friends.

Forget fairness; it is a mirage.  Seek justice, but know that occasionally you will have to settle for revenge.

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