Why do we do things that we know are bad for us?

I know it's bad, but....


    We do things that are bad for us because we are deluded by the idea of pleasure. Akrasia is a perfect word to describe this crippling feeling. Akrasia is a lack of self-control or acting against one's better judgement. A perfect example of this for me would be going to cookie boys. The same sequence of events happens every time I go to cookie boys. I walk into the store, telling myself "I won't eat anything today, I'll just hang out with my friends". I say this for two reasons most of the time; first to stay healthy, second so I don't spend money, but the moment I walk in I meet temptation. I choose to not get in the line, but then I am greeted with my friends who work there. They offer me free cookies, and from there, I convince myself I have to eat it, and now I have to get a milkshake along with it. In doing so I ended up buying an overpriced milkshake, and having an extra unhealthy meal. Once I am finished my sugary meal, I am filled with guilt. I came with two simple goals, and I was tempted to make decisions against my better judgment. Similarly with money you know you should spend too much, but you still do. "Whats the point of having money if I'm not gonna spend it", I frequently tell myself to convince myself that it is okay. All this proves that it is very possible to make decisions and choices we know are bad because we get tempted, and deluded by the false ideas of pleasure.

Comments

  1. Joseph LindholmApril 6, 2025 at 8:28 PM

    I completely agree, and i believe that it is that convincing part in our mind always trying to rational bad ideas that is the most destructive. I also believe that it is the self interest, always wanting short term gains that is the main stem of this. Great Blog

    ReplyDelete

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