What Would Aristotle Do? Self-Control Through the Power of Reason
Cohen (Caution: Faulty Thinking Can Be Harmful to Your Happiness), a professor of philosophy and medical ethics consultant, here advocates a combination of Aristotelian logic and Rational Emotive Behavior therapy, popularized by Dr. Albert Ellis. "By taking control of your life through the power...of reason," he writes, "you can overcome self-destructive, happiness-defeating ideas, emotions and actions!" Although somewhat over-written and disorganized, Cohen's book does clearly outline how purely emotional reasoning, such as over-generalizing, magnifying risks and wishful thinking, can lead to self-defeating behavior. When someone trapped in an abusive relationship simply wishes things would improve, for example, he or she helps perpetrate the cycle of abuse; Cohen recommends adopting a process of rational thought that will lead the victim to act for change. Cohen also provides antidotes for overcoming paralyzing emotional conditions, including anxiety, depression and guilt that, according to him, are based on faulty reasoning.Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.