A Rationale for Irrationality, Based on Breuer’s “Momentous Discovery”

Abstract

This paper starts by reviewing how little we understand, rationally, about oxygen and about the way we breathe generally, and how we moved from using gills to lungs. The central flaw in 2) scientific reasoning is that overinsistence on tangible “solutions” has led to neglect of the vital distinguishing feature of homo sapiens—the mind. Once 3) rational reasoning is brought centre stage, some of its intrinsic defects are reviewed. Using these points, 4) irrational reasoning is then considered, especially in relation to other contrary, or apparently uncooperative characteristics. 5) Breuer ’ s breakthrough is presented as shining a brilliant light on where irrationality itself comes from—and stresses the inability of the sufferer to recall the horrendous event which induced it in the first place. Further, it points to rehabilitating the medical word “cure”. More controversially, 6) irrational psychiatry points out that the leading psychiatric textbook attempts, quite explicitly, to distance itself from the very existence of mind itself, with predictable dire sequelae. In conclusion, the role deceit and lies play in 7) irrational planning is briefly reviewed.