Oscar Wilde: 'Man is a rational animal who always loses his temper when he is called upon to act in accordance with the dictates of reason.'

Man is a rational animal who always loses his temper when he is called upon to act in accordance with the dictates of reason.

In his famous quote, Oscar Wilde explores a fascinating paradox of human behavior. He states, "Man is a rational animal who always loses his temper when he is called upon to act in accordance with the dictates of reason." This seemingly contradictory statement holds both truth and significance in understanding the complexities of human nature.At first glance, the quote appears to suggest that humans possess the capacity for rational thought, yet struggle when it comes to implementing reason in their actions. It implies a gap between the intellect and the impulse, highlighting the dichotomy between what individuals know they should do and how they actually behave. The quote captures the frustration experienced when humans fall short of their own expectations, succumbing to emotional outbursts rather than adhering to logical reasoning.However, to truly appreciate the depth of this quote, it is important to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept - that of existentialism. Existentialism delves into the essence of human existence, emphasizing individual freedom and responsibility. It maintains that human beings are not purely rational creatures, but rather complex beings with emotions, desires, and internal conflicts. This philosophical lens brings to light the idea that man's irrationality when faced with reason is not a mere failing, but a reflection of the intricacies of being human.When analyzing Wilde's quote through an existentialist lens, it becomes clear that the tension between reason and emotional response stems from the inherent conflict between our intellectual capacity and our innate desires. While reason may guide us towards the most rational course of action, it often clashes with our emotional needs and impulses. In such instances, our immediate emotional reactions take precedence, leading to the "losing of temper" rather than adhering to reason.Existentialism suggests that this struggle between reason and emotion stems from the constant quest for meaning and authenticity in our lives. As human beings, we strive to find purpose and make choices that align with our values and desires. However, this search for meaning can be a formidable task, triggering internal conflicts and emotional responses that override rationality. Thus, the discrepancy between our intentions and actions, as expressed in Wilde's quote, becomes an essential aspect of the human experience.In understanding the importance of Wilde's quote, it is crucial to recognize that it does not seek to condemn human irrationality but rather invites introspection and self-reflection. It serves as a reminder that being human is a complex and multifaceted journey, where reason and emotion often intertwine and vie for dominance. Recognizing this duality within ourselves allows us to embrace our humanity fully, understanding that our actions may not always align with reason, yet they are a testament to the intricacies of our existence.In conclusion, Oscar Wilde's quote captures the essence of human behavior by highlighting the tension between reason and emotional response. It serves as a reminder that despite possessing the capacity for rational thought, human beings often struggle when it comes to implementing reason in their actions. By introducing the concept of existentialism, we gain further insight into the complexities of human nature and the significance of this quote. It emphasizes that the conflict between reason and emotion stems from our constant search for meaning and authenticity. Ultimately, Wilde's quote invites us to reflect on our own experiences, accepting that our actions may not always align with reason, but instead reflect the intricacies and depth of our existence.