The brain invents explanations

Some people have damaged fibers connecting the left and right hemispheres of their brain, and need to have that connection surgically severed. They live pretty normal lives even though the two sides of their brain are disconnected. Psychologists work with these people to better understand the brain.

They showed a patient a message to her right eye, saying, “Please close the window.” She got up and closed the window.

Then they showed a question to her left eye, “Why did you close the window?” She said she chose to do it because she was cold.

To another patient, a researcher said, to only one ear, “Please walk.” The patient started walking.

Then they asked his other ear, “Why did you walk?” He said he just felt like getting a drink.

One woman being tested for seizures had electrodes implanted in her brain. When they stimulated one area, she started laughing hysterically. The doctors asked why. She said the picture on the wall is really funny. Later, when probing that same area again, while she was eating, she laughed again. This time, she said it’s because her fork is really funny.

These people weren’t lying. They fully believed those were the real reasons.

This isn’t just brain patients. It’s an insight into the human condition: something that everyone does all the time, but these tests were able to show. When asked for an explanation, the brain invents a reason and completely believes it. To that person, the explanation feels like absolute fact — the kind they swear is true, believe deeply in their core, and will fight to defend!

Think of the implications: major life choices, attraction, excitement, love, jealousy, revenge, anxiety, fear, and interpersonal conflict. All of these are supported and defended by explanations that aren’t true.

People’s motives are unknowable, even to themselves. Let go of the need for a reason. Ignore their explanations. The only true facts are their actions.