Are Sense and Sensibility Mutually Exclusive?

Beliefs on Sense and Sensibility

The polarization between sense and sensibility can often find its roots in our childhood experiences. The lessons we absorb from our environment and family dynamics can significantly shape our perception of these two essential aspects of human nature. Let’s explore how this division can take shape and the impact it can have on our lives.

In some families and environments, a sense may have been exalted as an important virtue. Perhaps, practicality, reason, and logical thinking were the guiding principles, and any display of emotion or sentimentality was discouraged. This can lead to a conditioning where individuals are taught to prioritize sense at the expense of sensibility. Emotions and empathy might be perceived as weaknesses, prompting individuals to suppress their natural sensibility in favour of a more rational facade.

Conversely, in other environments, sensibility may have been elevated and treasured above all else. Here, the nurturing of emotions, compassion, and intuitive understanding might have been the prevailing ethos. However, an overemphasis on sensibility alone can sometimes lead to a lack of practicality and critical thinking. This can make it challenging to navigate the complex demands of the external world, which often requires a healthy balance of sense and sensibility.

Gender Polarisation

Gender roles can also play a role in the sense versus sensibility polarisation. Societal norms and expectations have, historically, often dictated that males should lean more towards sense – the logical and rational side, while females should embrace sensibility – the empathetic and emotional side. These stereotypes can create a division that can be limiting and confining for individuals of any gender.

Sense and Sensibility Imbalance

Yet, when we forsake one for the other, we may find ourselves facing negative consequences. An overreliance on the sense can lead to a life devoid of joy, emotional richness, and meaningful relationships. Conversely, if we allow sensibility to dominate unchecked, we might fall prey to impulsivity, irrationality, and emotional turbulence.

The Paradox-x Method: A Path to a “Marriage” of Sense and Sensibility

Sense provides the structure and foundation for our endeavours, while sensibility infuses them with purpose, depth, and heart. Together, they empower us to make wise, emotionally intelligent decisions and build connections that are both meaningful and pragmatic.

This integration, achieved through self-awareness and therapeutic methods like Paradox-x Method, allows us to honour both, our rational and emotional side. This is achieved through introspection into childhood, genetic and collective conditioning, broadening perspective on both aspects, sense and sensibility, and finally integrating the best of both aspects into our personality.