The rationale of rationalization

Behav Brain Sci. 2020 Apr 15:43:e53. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X19002164.

Abstract

While we agree in broad strokes with the characterisation of rationalization as a "useful fiction," we think that Fiery Cushman's claim remains ambiguous in two crucial respects: (1) the reality of beliefs and desires, that is, the fictional status of folk-psychological entities and (2) the degree to which they should be understood as useful. Our aim is to clarify both points and explicate the rationale of rationalization.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Comprehension*
  • Rationalization*