The Uses of Delusion: Why It's Not Always Rational to be Rational

The Uses of Delusion is about aspects of human nature that are not altogether rational but, nonetheless, help us achieve our social & personal goals. Psychologist Stuart Vyse presents a lively, accessible exploration of the psychological concepts behind "useful delusions", fleshing out how delusional thinking may play a role in love & relationships, illness & loss, & personality & behavior. Along the way Vyse draws on the work of William James, Daniel Kahneman, & Joan Didion - who wrote about her compelling belief that her husband, though deceased, would soon return to her.

Throughout, Vyse strives to answer the question: why would some of our most illogical beliefs be as helpful as they are? The concluding chapter offers an explanation grounded in natural selection - the ability to fool ourselves, Vyse argues, has actually helped us to survive. In the final pages of The Uses of Delusion, Vyse offers suggestions for determining when reason should rule & when intuition & emotion should be allowed to take over.

Stuart Vyse, PhD, is a behavioral scientist, teacher, & writer. He taught at Providence College, the University of Rhode Island, & Connecticut College.