The Rational Choice: Is Humanity Always Involved?

In summary, the conversation discusses the idea that rational choices may not always prioritize humanity. The example of the bombing of Hiroshima is used to illustrate this point, as it ended the war quickly but at a high cost to human lives. The conversation also raises questions about the true cost of making rational decisions and the impact on individuals' sense of morality. Ultimately, it is argued that rationality does not necessarily diminish humanity, but rather it is the truth that may have a negative impact.
  • #1
Itachi
11
0
"The rational choice is not always the one with the most humanity in it"

Give me your point of view about this quotation. You may agree or disagree with it.
 
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  • #2
Like the bombing of Hiroshima, a civilian city by the USA (the only nation so far to ever use an atomic against another nation) with the intended effect of ending the war far faster than a long and drawn out conventional war which would result in more casualties, and justifiable by the failure of Japan properly declaring war before attacking. It did end the war in a hurry but at what real cost? If we only factor in number of human lives versus a larger number then all the other factors are easier to overlook, after awhile of stepping over the line a bit farther each time even torture of prisoners could be chalked up as another highly effective means of lowering the casualty rate and getting the war over quickly, but at what cost? What does it really cost a person to not only feel they have to shoot another but also torture them and bomb their children and burn down their schools and churches because it fits the numbers and popular opinion at the time?
 
  • #3
It says more about a person's reasoning than reasoning itself.
Rationality doesn't detract from humanity- the truth detracts from humanity. :frown:
 

1. What is the rational choice theory?

The rational choice theory is an economic and social theory that states that individuals make decisions based on rational calculations and their own self-interest. It assumes that individuals have perfect information and will always make choices that maximize their own personal gain.

2. How does the rational choice theory apply to humanity?

The rational choice theory can be applied to human behavior in various situations, such as decision making in economics, politics, and social interactions. It suggests that humans are rational beings who weigh the costs and benefits of their actions and make decisions based on their self-interest.

3. Is humanity always involved in the rational choice?

Yes, the rational choice theory assumes that humans are always involved in decision making and that their choices are based on rational calculations. However, there may be instances where emotions or other factors influence decision making, deviating from the rational choice.

4. What are the potential criticisms of the rational choice theory?

Some criticisms of the rational choice theory include its assumption of perfect information and rationality, which may not accurately reflect human behavior. It also does not account for cultural and societal influences on decision making.

5. Can the rational choice theory be applied to all situations?

The rational choice theory may not be applicable to all situations as it is based on assumptions that may not hold true in certain contexts. For example, in situations where emotions play a significant role, the rational choice theory may not accurately explain decision making. It is important to consider other theories and factors when analyzing human behavior.

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