Conscience: Fear, Morality, & Decisions

The human experience navigates a complex interplay between ethical frameworks like those proposed by Immanuel Kant, emotional responses often studied in the field of Psychology, and societal norms reflected in legal systems such as the U.S. Supreme Court; these elements collectively contribute to the internal compass known as conscience. Morality, a critical attribute, shapes our understanding of right and wrong, profoundly influencing our choices and actions when facing adversity, but the weight of this internal voice can be debilitating. Indeed, the consideration of potential repercussions, combined with the inherent moral obligations we feel, often leads to hesitation and inaction; in essence, conscience does make cowards of us all.

The Guiding Voice Within: Unpacking Conscience, Fear, and Moral Choice

Conscience, often described as an internal moral compass, is a concept that has captivated philosophers, theologians, and psychologists for centuries. It represents that deeply ingrained sense of right and wrong, a personal code that guides our actions and shapes our judgments.

The Ubiquity of Conscience

The influence of conscience permeates nearly every aspect of human behavior. From the smallest daily interactions to life-altering decisions, our conscience silently weighs in, nudging us towards what we believe to be morally sound. It’s the internal referee in the constant game of life.

This influence manifests in countless ways:

• The hesitation before telling a lie.
• The sense of satisfaction after helping someone in need.
• The feeling of unease when we act against our own values.

These are all subtle but powerful indications of conscience at work.

Conscience vs. Fear: A Complex Dance

However, conscience doesn’t operate in a vacuum. It often finds itself entangled with other powerful emotions, most notably, fear. The interplay between these two forces can significantly impact our moral decision-making.

Fear, in its various forms – fear of social disapproval, fear of punishment, fear of failure – can either reinforce or suppress the dictates of conscience.

Fear as a Moral Restraint

In some instances, fear can serve as a deterrent, preventing us from acting in ways that we know to be wrong. The fear of legal repercussions, for example, might prevent someone from stealing, even if they are tempted to do so.

Fear as a Moral Inhibitor

Conversely, fear can also override conscience, leading us to compromise our values in the name of self-preservation. A classic example is the bystander effect, where individuals fail to intervene in an emergency situation because they fear for their own safety or worry about social judgment.

The balance between conscience and fear is a delicate one. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for navigating the complex moral landscape of our lives. We need to be aware of how fear can cloud our judgment and potentially lead us to act against our better selves. Cultivating moral courage allows us to act according to our conscience, even when faced with fear.

Deconstructing Conscience: Theories and Definitions

Following our introduction to the intricate relationship between conscience and moral decision-making, it becomes essential to deconstruct the very notion of conscience itself. What exactly is this internal guide? Where does it originate, and how has its understanding evolved across different schools of thought? This section will explore the theoretical underpinnings of conscience, drawing from psychological and philosophical perspectives to illuminate its multifaceted nature.

Conscience: The Moral Compass Within

The concept of conscience often manifests as a moral compass, an inner voice that guides our actions and distinguishes right from wrong. It is a powerful force that shapes our behavior, influencing our choices in ways both subtle and profound.

Conscience is not a monolithic entity, but rather a complex interplay of cognitive, emotional, and social factors. Its manifestations can range from feelings of guilt and shame to a deep-seated sense of moral obligation.

The Freudian Superego: Internalizing Societal Norms

Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, proposed the concept of the Superego as a key component of the human psyche. The Superego represents the internalized moral standards and ideals that individuals acquire from their parents and society.

According to Freud, the Superego operates largely on an unconscious level, acting as a critical and judgmental force that seeks to suppress the impulses of the id, the primitive and instinctual part of the psyche.

The Superego strives for moral perfection and can often lead to feelings of guilt and shame when individuals violate its internalized standards. This Freudian perspective highlights the significant role of societal and parental influences in shaping an individual’s conscience.

Jung’s Shadow Self: Integrating the Unacknowledged

Carl Jung, a contemporary of Freud, offered a different perspective on the development of conscience. Jung emphasized the importance of integrating the shadow self, the unconscious aspect of the personality that contains repressed or disowned qualities.

The shadow self embodies the traits and impulses that individuals deem unacceptable or undesirable, leading them to suppress these aspects of their psyche.

However, Jung argued that true moral development requires individuals to acknowledge and integrate their shadow self. By confronting and understanding the darker aspects of their personality, individuals can achieve greater self-awareness and wholeness, ultimately strengthening their moral compass.

Kant vs. Nietzsche: Duty, Morality, and Beyond

Philosophical explorations of conscience offer diverse perspectives on moral obligation and the nature of morality. Immanuel Kant, for instance, emphasized the importance of duty and reason in moral decision-making.

Kant argued that moral actions should be guided by universal principles that apply to all rational beings, regardless of their personal desires or circumstances. This categorical imperative dictates that individuals should act only according to maxims that they could will to become universal laws.

In contrast, Friedrich Nietzsche challenged traditional notions of morality, arguing that they were often based on resentment and a desire to control others.

Nietzsche criticized the concept of a universal morality, arguing that moral values are relative and that individuals should strive to create their own values based on their unique perspectives and experiences. This rejection of universal moral obligation stands in stark contrast to Kant’s emphasis on duty and reason.

Conscience on Stage: Literary and Dramatic Depictions

From the ancient Greek tragedies to modern cinematic masterpieces, literature and drama have long served as fertile ground for exploring the complexities of the human conscience. These artistic mediums offer a unique lens through which to examine the internal moral conflicts that shape our decisions and define our character. By analyzing how conscience is portrayed in various works, we can gain a deeper understanding of its multifaceted nature and its profound impact on individuals and societies.

Shakespeare’s Hamlet: A Microcosm of Moral Turmoil

William Shakespeare, a master of human psychology, frequently plumbed the depths of moral ambiguity in his plays. Hamlet, perhaps his most famous work, stands as a quintessential example of the internal struggle between action and inaction, fueled by the weight of conscience.

Hamlet’s Burden: Thought vs. Action

The play revolves around Prince Hamlet’s quest for revenge against his uncle, Claudius, who murdered Hamlet’s father and usurped the throne. However, Hamlet’s path to vengeance is fraught with hesitation and self-doubt. He is a scholar and a thinker, prone to introspection and agonizing over the moral implications of his actions.

This internal conflict is brilliantly captured in his famous soliloquies, where he wrestles with the question of whether to take action or passively endure his suffering. "To be, or not to be, that is the question" encapsulates his profound contemplation of life, death, and the consequences of his choices.

Claudius: The Absence of Remorse

In stark contrast to Hamlet’s tormented conscience stands Claudius, the embodiment of moral corruption. While Claudius acknowledges his sin, his remorse is superficial and self-serving. He is primarily concerned with maintaining his power and avoiding earthly punishment, rather than genuine repentance.

His inability to truly grapple with the moral implications of his actions highlights the devastating consequences of a deficient conscience.

Claudius’ famous soliloquy where he attempts to pray, yet finds himself unable to repent, is a further testament to the hollowness of his morality. This stark contrast between Hamlet and Claudius serves to underscore the central theme of conscience and its power to shape one’s destiny.

Modern Echoes: Conscience in Contemporary Fiction

The exploration of conscience extends far beyond the realm of classic literature. Contemporary fiction continues to grapple with complex moral dilemmas, presenting characters who grapple with their internal compasses in a world of shifting values and ethical ambiguities.

Navigating Moral Grey Areas

Many modern novels and films feature protagonists who are forced to make difficult choices in morally ambiguous situations. These characters often face conflicting loyalties, societal pressures, and personal desires, forcing them to confront the limits of their own conscience.

By examining these examples, we can gain valuable insights into the challenges of navigating ethical complexities in the modern world. These narratives remind us that the path of conscience is rarely clear-cut and that moral courage often requires us to stand against the tide of popular opinion.

Ultimately, the portrayal of conscience in literature and drama serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the enduring importance of moral reflection. By engaging with these narratives, we can deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us, and cultivate a stronger sense of our own moral compass.

Conscience in Action: Real-World Examples

From the pages of philosophical treatises to the grand stage of history, the concept of conscience takes on a tangible form when we witness individuals acting upon their moral convictions. This section delves into compelling real-world examples, illustrating how conscience, that often subtle inner voice, can galvanize profound action, especially in the face of formidable challenges and adversity.

The Embodiment of Moral Courage: Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks

The American Civil Rights Movement provides perhaps the most potent examples of conscience translated into courageous action. Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks stand as testaments to the power of individual conviction to challenge systemic injustice.

King’s unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance, rooted in his deep understanding of social ethics and moral responsibility, directly confronted the deeply entrenched racial segregation of the American South.

Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus was not merely a spontaneous act of defiance, but a deliberate and conscientious stand against an unjust system. Her singular act of defiance sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

These examples demonstrate that conscience, when coupled with courage, can become a catalyst for transformative social change.

The Dilemma of the Whistleblower: Choosing Truth Over Security

Whistleblowers represent another stark example of conscience in action, often involving individuals facing agonizing moral dilemmas. These individuals, witnessing unethical or illegal conduct within their organizations, are compelled by their conscience to expose the wrongdoing, despite potentially severe personal and professional repercussions.

The decision to blow the whistle is rarely easy. It involves a complex calculation, weighing the moral imperative to expose wrongdoing against the potential for retaliation, ostracization, and even legal action.

Figures like Edward Snowden and Chelsea Manning embody this internal conflict, demonstrating the extraordinary courage required to act on one’s conscience when faced with immense pressure and potential personal cost.

Their actions, though controversial, highlight the essential role of conscience in holding power accountable and safeguarding the public interest.

Socrates: The Examined Life and Moral Integrity

Venturing further back in time, we find Socrates, the Athenian philosopher who epitomized the life of conscience. Socrates dedicated his life to the relentless pursuit of truth and virtue, challenging conventional wisdom and urging his fellow citizens to examine their own beliefs and values.

His unwavering commitment to his principles, even in the face of persecution and ultimately, death, serves as a powerful example of the importance of intellectual and moral integrity.

Socrates chose to face execution rather than compromise his philosophical beliefs, underscoring his conviction that a life lived according to conscience is more valuable than mere survival. His emphasis on self-reflection and moral reasoning laid the foundation for ethical thought.

By consistently questioning authority and advocating for justice, Socrates demonstrated that true wisdom lies in aligning one’s actions with one’s conscience.

The Emotional Heart of Conscience: Guilt, Shame, and Dissonance

From the grand stage of history to the quiet moments of personal reflection, the concept of conscience takes on a tangible form when we witness individuals acting upon their moral convictions. This section delves into the complex emotional landscape intricately woven with conscience, exploring how guilt, shame, and cognitive dissonance act as potent forces shaping our moral compass and ultimately, our behavior.

Guilt and Shame: Moral Compasses

Guilt and shame, two powerful emotions, often arise when our actions deviate from our internal moral standards. While sometimes used interchangeably, they represent distinct experiences with unique implications for our behavior.

Guilt typically arises from the recognition that we have committed a specific wrong or transgression. It focuses on the action itself and often motivates us to make amends or repair the harm caused.

Shame, on the other hand, is a more pervasive and self-focused emotion. It arises from the feeling that we are fundamentally flawed or unworthy. Shame attacks our sense of self.

As such, it can be a debilitating emotion that leads to withdrawal, avoidance, or even destructive behaviors. Both guilt and shame, however, can act as powerful motivators for moral behavior.

The anticipation of experiencing these emotions can deter us from engaging in actions that we believe are wrong. The desire to avoid the discomfort of guilt and the pain of shame can effectively guide our choices and keep us aligned with our moral values.

However, the effectiveness of guilt and shame as moral regulators depends on several factors. The severity of the transgression, the individual’s sensitivity to these emotions, and the cultural context all play a role.

In some cases, guilt and shame can be counterproductive, leading to anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems. It is essential to distinguish between healthy guilt, which motivates constructive action, and toxic shame, which erodes self-worth.

Cognitive Dissonance: The Mind’s Balancing Act

Cognitive dissonance, a psychological phenomenon described by Leon Festinger, refers to the discomfort we experience when holding conflicting beliefs, values, or attitudes. This dissonance creates a state of psychological tension that we are motivated to reduce.

Our conscience, as a repository of moral beliefs, often plays a central role in triggering cognitive dissonance. When our actions contradict our moral principles, we experience a clash between what we believe is right and what we have done.

This dissonance can manifest in various ways. We might rationalize our behavior, downplay the significance of the transgression, or even change our beliefs to align with our actions.

For example, an individual who values honesty but lies to protect a friend might experience cognitive dissonance. To reduce this discomfort, they might convince themselves that the lie was harmless or that loyalty to a friend outweighs the importance of honesty in this particular situation.

The relationship between cognitive dissonance and conscience is complex and dynamic. Dissonance can prompt us to re-evaluate our moral values, leading to personal growth and a more nuanced understanding of ethical dilemmas.

It can also lead to self-deception and rationalization, allowing us to maintain a positive self-image while engaging in morally questionable behavior. The choices we make in resolving cognitive dissonance reveal the strength and flexibility of our conscience.

By confronting the tension between our beliefs and actions, we have the opportunity to strengthen our moral compass and align our behavior with our deepest values. However, we also face the risk of compromising our integrity in the pursuit of psychological comfort.

Context Matters: The Influence of Environment on Conscience

From the grand stage of history to the quiet moments of personal reflection, the concept of conscience takes on a tangible form when we witness individuals acting upon their moral convictions. This section delves into the complex emotional landscape intricately woven with conscience, exploring how external contexts—social, environmental, and institutional—shape our moral compass and influence our ethical decision-making.

The Moral Compass of Institutions

The role of institutions, particularly religious ones, in shaping moral values cannot be overstated. Religious institutions often serve as the initial arbiters of right and wrong, providing a framework for understanding ethical principles.

These institutions typically offer a well-defined set of moral guidelines, fostering a sense of conscience from an early age through teachings, rituals, and community practices.

However, the influence of religious institutions is not without its complexities. What happens when personal conscience clashes with institutional doctrines? History is replete with examples of individuals who have challenged religious dogma, driven by a personal sense of justice and morality.

Ethical Crossroads: The Hospital Setting

Hospitals and medical environments present some of the most challenging ethical scenarios, forcing individuals to confront complex issues of life, death, and patient autonomy. Medical professionals often find themselves at the intersection of their professional obligations, personal values, and the needs and desires of their patients.

The principles of beneficence (doing good) and non-maleficence (doing no harm) can come into direct conflict, particularly in cases involving end-of-life care, resource allocation, or experimental treatments.

Consider the scenario of a patient with a terminal illness who refuses life-sustaining treatment. The physician’s conscience may compel them to preserve life, yet the patient’s autonomy dictates that they have the right to make decisions about their own body and healthcare.

These situations demand careful deliberation, empathy, and a commitment to ethical principles.

The Rise of Bioethics

The increasing complexity of medical technology and treatments has led to the development of bioethics as a distinct field. Bioethics provides a framework for analyzing and resolving ethical dilemmas in healthcare, considering the moral implications of medical advancements and the rights of patients and healthcare providers.

Extreme Environments: War Zones and Moral Judgment

War zones represent an extreme context where traditional notions of morality are often tested and redefined. The chaos and violence inherent in warfare can create situations in which individuals are forced to make split-second decisions with life-or-death consequences.

The psychological pressures of combat, coupled with the dehumanizing effects of war, can erode an individual’s sense of empathy and moral restraint.

In such environments, soldiers may be ordered to carry out actions that conflict with their personal conscience. The principle of ‘just war theory’ attempts to provide ethical guidelines for the conduct of warfare, but the application of these principles in the heat of battle is fraught with difficulties.

The question of individual responsibility in the context of war crimes remains a complex and contentious issue. Can one truly be held accountable for actions committed under duress or in the name of national security? These are questions that continue to challenge our understanding of conscience and moral judgment.

Society’s Moral Framework: Institutions and Conscience

From the grand stage of history to the quiet moments of personal reflection, the concept of conscience takes on a tangible form when we witness individuals acting upon their moral convictions. This section explores how societal structures and institutions contribute to the development and enforcement of moral standards and how they interact with individual conscience, often revealing complex and conflicting dynamics.

Courts of Law: Justice Tempered by Morality?

Courts of law stand as cornerstones of civilized society, tasked with the critical role of interpreting and applying legal principles. However, the intersection of law and morality is rarely straightforward.

Legal statutes, while intended to reflect societal values, can sometimes clash with individual or collective conscience.

Consider the historical instances of unjust laws, upheld by courts, which perpetuated discrimination or oppression.

The challenge lies in navigating the space where legality and morality diverge. Judges and juries are frequently called upon to make decisions that weigh legal precedent against deeply held moral beliefs.

The concept of jury nullification, where a jury returns a verdict of "not guilty" despite believing the defendant violated the law, exemplifies this tension. It underscores the power of conscience to challenge even the most established legal frameworks.

Ultimately, the courts offer a structured process for resolving disputes, yet the pursuit of justice remains inextricably linked to the prevailing moral climate of a society.

Schools and Universities: Cultivating Ethical Citizens

Educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping the moral landscape of future generations.

Schools and universities are not merely centers for academic learning; they are also vital spaces for fostering ethical awareness and critical thinking.

Through curricula that incorporate ethics, philosophy, and social responsibility, students are encouraged to grapple with complex moral dilemmas.

Exposure to diverse perspectives and ethical frameworks allows individuals to develop their own moral compass, grounded in reason and empathy.

However, the effectiveness of ethical education hinges on creating an environment that encourages open dialogue and critical self-reflection.

Simply imparting moral doctrines is insufficient. Students must be empowered to question, analyze, and articulate their own moral positions.

Furthermore, universities have a responsibility to model ethical behavior through their own policies and practices, ensuring that their actions align with the values they seek to instill in their students.

Human Rights Organizations: Advocates of Collective Conscience

Human rights organizations stand as a powerful testament to the enduring power of collective conscience. These organizations, operating at local, national, and international levels, are driven by a shared commitment to upholding fundamental human rights and challenging injustice wherever it occurs.

They serve as a vital force in advocating for marginalized and vulnerable populations, often confronting powerful interests in the pursuit of justice.

The actions of human rights organizations, be it Amnesty International or Human Rights Watch, are fundamentally rooted in a belief that certain moral principles are universal and inviolable.

Their work involves documenting human rights abuses, raising awareness, lobbying governments, and providing legal assistance to victims.

In challenging human rights violations, these organizations often encounter resistance and even hostility from states and other actors.

Yet, their unwavering commitment to moral principles demonstrates the potential for collective conscience to effect meaningful social change. They remind us that individual conscience, when amplified through collective action, can challenge even the most entrenched systems of power and oppression.

Tools for Ethical Navigation: Codes, Philosophies, and Frameworks

From the grand stage of history to the quiet moments of personal reflection, the concept of conscience takes on a tangible form when we witness individuals acting upon their moral convictions. This section explores how societal structures and institutions contribute to the development and enforcement of moral standards, and how individuals can utilize established ethical frameworks to navigate moral complexities.

Conscience is not solely an innate compass; it is also shaped by external guidelines and philosophical underpinnings.

To help navigate the intricate landscape of moral decision-making, numerous tools and frameworks have been developed. These range from formalized codes of ethics to profound philosophical inquiries, each offering a unique lens through which to examine complex moral dilemmas.

The Guiding Hand of Codes of Ethics

Professions, particularly those with significant societal impact, often adopt codes of ethics. These codes serve as explicit guidelines for conduct, providing a framework for ethical behavior within a specific field.

These codes act as a moral compass, offering clear direction in situations where personal conscience may be challenged or ambiguous. They offer a structured approach to ethical reasoning within a professional context.

Examples in Practice

The American Medical Association’s (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics, for example, outlines principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, and respect for patient autonomy. This helps physicians navigate complex decisions related to patient care.

Similarly, the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct provide guidance for lawyers, emphasizing duties of confidentiality, competence, and loyalty to clients. These rules help maintain the integrity of the legal system.

These codes are not merely abstract principles; they are actively applied in real-world scenarios. When ethical dilemmas arise, professionals can refer to these codes to guide their decision-making process, ensuring accountability and upholding the standards of their profession.

Moral Philosophy: A Deeper Dive

Beyond codified rules, moral philosophy offers a rich tapestry of theories and perspectives on ethics and conscience. Texts from philosophers across the ages provide diverse frameworks for understanding morality.

These frameworks are not about providing easy answers, but rather fostering critical thinking and reasoned ethical judgment.

Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism, famously championed by John Stuart Mill, posits that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness and minimizes suffering. This framework encourages decision-makers to consider the consequences of their actions on all affected parties.

Deontology

In contrast, deontology, associated with Immanuel Kant, emphasizes the importance of duty and adherence to moral rules, regardless of consequences. This perspective underscores the importance of acting according to universal moral principles.

Virtue Ethics

Virtue ethics, tracing back to Aristotle, focuses on cultivating virtuous character traits, such as honesty, courage, and compassion. This framework emphasizes the importance of developing a moral character that naturally inclines towards ethical behavior.

Exploring the Value

Engaging with these diverse philosophical perspectives can enrich our understanding of conscience and moral decision-making. By grappling with different ethical frameworks, we can develop a more nuanced and sophisticated approach to moral dilemmas.

Studying moral philosophy equips us to critically examine our own values, beliefs, and assumptions, leading to more informed and ethically grounded choices. This, in turn, strengthens our capacity to act in accordance with our conscience.

The Limits of Universality: Challenging the Notion of a Shared Conscience

From the grand stage of history to the quiet moments of personal reflection, the concept of conscience takes on a tangible form when we witness individuals acting upon their moral convictions. This section will examine the challenges to the concept of a universal conscience, especially when considering perspectives such as moral relativism.

The Elusive Nature of a Universal Conscience

The notion of a universally shared conscience, an intrinsic moral compass guiding all individuals toward similar ethical conclusions, is a compelling ideal. However, this concept faces significant challenges when confronted with the diversity of human cultures, belief systems, and historical experiences. Is it truly possible to assert that all humans, regardless of their backgrounds, possess an inherent understanding of right and wrong that aligns across all contexts?

Moral Relativism: A Challenge to Universal Morality

Moral relativism posits that moral judgments are relative to particular individuals, cultures, or historical periods. In other words, what is considered morally acceptable in one society may be deemed reprehensible in another. This perspective directly challenges the idea of a single, objective standard of morality that applies to everyone, everywhere.

Cultural Variations in Moral Norms

The world presents a tapestry of diverse cultural practices, some of which may clash with what many consider universal moral principles. Examples such as variations in attitudes towards marriage, gender roles, or even dietary restrictions demonstrate how profoundly culture can shape moral perceptions. These cultural differences raise fundamental questions about the possibility of establishing a truly universal moral code.

The Argument Against Universal Values

• If morality is relative, does that imply that any action can be justified based on cultural or individual preferences?

• And how do we reconcile the existence of universally condemned actions, such as genocide or torture, with the notion that morality is purely subjective?

Moral Absolutism: The Counter-Argument

In contrast to moral relativism, moral absolutism asserts that there are universal moral principles that are objectively true and apply to all people at all times. These principles are often grounded in religious beliefs, philosophical reasoning, or a belief in inherent human rights.

The Appeal to Natural Law

Absolutists often appeal to natural law, the idea that moral principles are inherent in the natural order of the universe and can be discovered through reason. This perspective suggests that certain actions are intrinsically right or wrong, regardless of cultural context.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

• The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948, represents an attempt to articulate a set of fundamental rights that all human beings are entitled to, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or religion.

• However, even these seemingly universal rights are subject to interpretation and debate, illustrating the ongoing tension between universalist aspirations and the realities of cultural and political diversity.

Navigating the Tension Between Relativism and Absolutism

The debate between moral relativism and moral absolutism highlights the complexities inherent in discussing conscience and morality. While it may be tempting to embrace one extreme or the other, a more nuanced approach may be necessary. Recognizing the influence of culture and context on moral perceptions does not necessarily require abandoning the pursuit of universal values. Instead, it calls for open dialogue, critical self-reflection, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives.

So, next time you’re wrestling with a tough call, remember that internal battle? That’s your conscience in action, weighing the options and whispering (or sometimes shouting!) what it thinks is right. It’s messy, it’s complicated, and yeah, maybe conscience does make cowards of us all sometimes, but it also makes us human. Ignoring it completely? Well, that’s a decision in itself.