89. Slow Is Smooth & Smooth Is Fast

People often seek practical steps to fix their problems quickly. In their rush to find solutions, they may overlook the importance of understanding the underlying ideas behind those solutions. This approach, driven by a desire for speed, suggests that action is more important than comprehension.

However, without understanding, how can we truly judge the validity of a solution or the criteria for its success or failure? We can judge it by the authority proposing it, their persuasive powers, how we imagine it makes us feel, and even how many friends are doing it. But these superficial measures account for everything but the theory behind it. This makes this approach anti-rational as it actively discourages critical thinking. Rationality involves the growth of knowledge through conjectures and refutations, where explanations and theories are central.

Continually ignoring the theories and explanations behind a proposition encourages us to forget that we must judge what is best for us. We end up giving up our sovereignty as free thinkers. Focusing solely on actions without considering the explanatory framework can lead to blind adherence to methods or solutions without understanding their purpose or potential consequences.

A more rational approach involves asking questions like, "What is the theory or explanation behind this action?" or "Why is this action proposed, and how does it align with our understanding?" This perspective encourages deeper engagement with the problem and more thoughtful consideration of the proposed solutions. By doing so, we encourage ourselves to judge the solutions and refine or discard inadequate theories.

Understanding the underlying ideas is not just a theoretical exercise. It is a practical necessity for making informed decisions. It empowers us to critically evaluate and adapt solutions to our unique circumstances, leading to more effective problem-solving.