Reason

Two definitions come to mind when I read or hear the word "reason." 

a) purpose

b) logic/rational

My academic self is very rational. Academics can be very cold, dry and "reason"-able. I find this especially true in math and non-biological sciences - but maybe I'm biased. What I've just implied is not that reason is bad, but that it is more prominent in certain aspects of life. I find there is no room for being illogical when finding the derivative of a function or calculating the vertical and horizontal acceleration in physics. 

There is a trend: It seems that my favorite subjects in school, english, history and biology are far more "human." They are less calculating and more open to interpretation - I am more passionate about them and less "logical" in my study of them. I experiment and express curiosity. 

So, is reason a hindrance? No, but I do think that there should be a balance between reason and imagination/passion (whatever you wish to call the opposite of cold, hard logic). 

Reason is a good starting point - to get the "facts," set goals, interpret data and use common sense. However, sometimes a little lack in reason can be inspirational. Too much reason is a barrier - it restrains our thoughts. We often find ourselves conforming to reason. 

 

It should be clear, though, that I express reason in most everything I do to a certain extent - my level of reason fluctuates. So, I do not consider myself full of reason all the time. Although, the fact that I just attempted to self diagnose my level of reason might make me more rational than I originally intended....

I believe I've just confused myself. 

My point: reason is a baseline in my life - but it's not really the heart of the matter.