The Near Death of Logic, the Clear Dearth of Integrity

Canada Free Press ^ | 03/27/08 | Yomin Postelnik

[Yomin Postelnik]

One of society’s largest problems is that decisions on all matters, be it education, health, national security or any other issue, are no longer rooted in pure logic with a regard for what’s best for society. No longer do we analyze what’s best overall and then seek to implement sound solutions. Indeed, people who try to are often derided for doing so.

To be sure, those on the wrong side of any issue often quote facts to support their agendas, but only those facts that suit its side. Contrary to what they may claim, such practice is not logic; it’s the antithesis of it. Logic demands rigorous analysis of all relevant facts in order to determine the best course of action. Skewing facts to fit a nonsensical agenda is dishonest and benefits no one.

By contrast, pure logic truly benefits society. Real, results oriented compassion stems from logic. A compassion that demands we accomplish what’s truly best as opposed to offering a self-serving quick fix. Logic demands a high level of mercy and advocacy for the general welfare of the public. But the type of mercy it demands is the true kind, one that discourages dependency and encourages innovation. It discourages hedonism and boredom and supports rehabilitation, invention and productivity. The benefits of the policies that emanate from it are readily felt and will benefit society on all levels, from increased business to private determination and healthier living.

[tom paine 2]

Aristotelian logic was one of my favorite courses in college. It should be a requirement for every collegian. If a persons mind was ordered we would not have all these looney birds walking around in society impersonating humans.

[Yomin Postelnik]

TP,
I agree with you that we really need critical thinking. I’d add a minor point that there’s a difference between what Aristotle thought and how it’s portrayed and some of his philosohpy has some issues, but we definitely need more courses that focus on logic and how to think.

One columnist, forget who, had an interesting piece in which he laid out that one missing ingredient in liberalism is proportion, the term that differentiates between a jaywalker and a murderer. True logic and critical thinking would help them, but only if they approach it with honesty and sincerity.