The Dance Between Feeling and Knowing
In contemporary times, the distinction between feeling and knowing has become increasingly nuanced and complex. Understanding their relationship is crucial for navigating the vast expanse of human knowledge and emotional truth.
Introduction to Feeling and Knowing
"Feeling" emanates from the heart, embodying intuition and immediate response. Unlike "knowing," which is grounded in logic and facts, feeling is more subjective and often unverified. Feelings can be misleading and unfounded, yet they offer profound, often unspoken insights. "Knowing," on the other hand, is defined by mental comprehension and logical understanding. However, this does not make it infallible; truths can be misinterpreted or outdated.
The Human Mind and Heart: Analogy of Empathy
Your mind analyzes perceptual reality, while your heart defines feelings. Emotions serve as the master teachers, guiding you through the labyrinth of life experiences. Reactions to these emotions lead to internal responses, always flowing from your heart. This process is deeply tied to the concept of ascension—a journey of personal growth and evolution. Namaste is a reminder of the intrinsic, divine nature within us all. These insights suggest that the relationship between feeling and knowing is symbiotic, with feelings enhancing our understanding and knowing grounding our emotional experiences.
Differences Between Knowing and Feeling
The difference between knowing and feeling is fundamental. To know something is to comprehend its definition, while to feel something is to truly understand the underlying concept deeply. For instance, you might know how to walk, but you can also feel it in your bones. This embodiment of knowledge transcends the mere intellectual understanding, delving into the essence of the experience.
Young People and Emotional Integration
Young people often struggle to separate their feelings from interactions with others. The fusion of their own emotions with those of others can lead to unintended consequences. For example, a romantic relationship that arises from a combination of feeling and action may produce lasting effects for years to come. This underscores the importance of distinguishing between the two for personal and social well-being.
Epistemology and the Nature of Knowledge
Knowledge is a mysterious and multifaceted concept. You can know many things but still not be certain of your knowledge, or you can be certain and yet fail to act upon it. Feelings, however, are less mental and more intuitive. They are known, even if they are often ignored or doubted. The neurological basis of feelings and knowledge can be explored further by studying epistemology, the theory of knowledge. For a deep dive into this topic, consider looking up epistemology.
The Different Facets of Feeling
“Feeling” can encompass both emotions and the functions of the mind and psyche. While the brain does not experience emotions, it processes feeling as part of its function. This is akin to how a computer processes information. Sense is non-rational because input can be chaotic or patterned. Intuition is also non-rational, as glimpses are often haphazard. Both sense and intuition are processed to form “nods of approval” or “nods of disapproval.” Feeling, in contrast, is rational, distinguishing it from physiological emotions. Thinking, on the other hand, is a process of synthesizing various outputs into meaningful conclusions. Will serves as a liaison, driving thoughts and feelings into action.
The Analysis of Knowing
"Knowing" involves a sense of certainty rooted in the focus of attention on nodes of association. An outsider might view another’s knowledge as belief, a form of intellectual synthesis. Understanding the introspective nature of knowing can provide valuable insights into personal and collective decision-making processes.
Conclusion
The relationship between feeling and knowing is intricate and dynamic. By understanding the nuances of each, we can navigate the complexities of human experience more effectively. Emphasizing the importance of both feeling and knowing in our lives can lead to a more fulfilling, balanced existence.