We have reached the point in the discussion where to move forwards we need to define terms.
By rational in this context I think what I’m meaning is a choice based on evidence which indicates that a given course of action is likely to result in the outcome intended.
Like how if my neighbour parks on my front lawn, my immediate response is to smash his car and the rational response is to talk to him calmly. Evidence suggests that being the bigger person there would be more likely to protect my lawn and property, even if morally I would have the right to be angry and express that.
I think that I got it. The def mismatch wasn’t on the word “rational”, but rather on “to expect”. Based on your example you’re using it for “to anticipate, to predict”; I was reading it as “to hope, to demand”.
Now I agree with your point - yes, it’s irrational to predict/anticipate that humans will act rationally. [Sorry for the confusion]
We have reached the point in the discussion where to move forwards we need to define terms.
By rational in this context I think what I’m meaning is a choice based on evidence which indicates that a given course of action is likely to result in the outcome intended.
Like how if my neighbour parks on my front lawn, my immediate response is to smash his car and the rational response is to talk to him calmly. Evidence suggests that being the bigger person there would be more likely to protect my lawn and property, even if morally I would have the right to be angry and express that.
I think that I got it. The def mismatch wasn’t on the word “rational”, but rather on “to expect”. Based on your example you’re using it for “to anticipate, to predict”; I was reading it as “to hope, to demand”.
Now I agree with your point - yes, it’s irrational to predict/anticipate that humans will act rationally. [Sorry for the confusion]
No worries! Thanks for the discussion and offering your insights. I’m impressed by your clarity and discernment.