“Our judgments when we are pleased and friendly are not the same as when we are pained and hostile.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
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Quote
“Our judgments when we are pleased and friendly are not the same as when we are pained and hostile.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle highlights how our emotions influence our judgments and decision-making. When we are in a state of pleasure or friendliness, we tend to view situations and people more positively, often overlooking flaws or potential issues. Conversely, when we are pained or hostile, our judgments are clouded by negative emotions, leading us to be more critical or biased. Aristotle’s point is that emotions have a powerful effect on our perception of the world, and the way we feel in a given moment can significantly shape our opinions and actions, often leading to judgments that are not entirely rational or objective.
This concept is highly relevant in modern psychology, particularly in the study of emotional intelligence and cognitive biases. It is well understood today that emotions play a significant role in our decision-making, often leading us to make choices based not on logic or facts, but on how we feel in the moment. For instance, someone who is angry may make harsh decisions or say things they later regret, while someone who is happy may view a situation more favorably than they would otherwise.
In everyday life, this can be seen in personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or political opinions. For example, when we feel connected to someone, we may overlook their flaws or mistakes, judging them more leniently. On the other hand, when we are upset or in conflict with someone, we may focus more on their shortcomings, making judgments that are harsher or less fair. Aristotle’s observation reminds us that it is important to be aware of how our emotions influence our judgments, encouraging us to strive for more objective, balanced decisions, especially in moments of emotional intensity.
