There’s an age-old question surrounding our thoughts and behaviors. Do we think before we act? Or act before we think? Much of decision making is actually governed by instinct – reacting to our bodies physical responses.

Our ‘gut feelings’ influence our decisions, overriding ‘rational’ thought. One particular study found this to be especially true when we are faced with financial offers that we deem to be unfair. Even when we are set to benefit, our physical response can make us more likely to reject a financial proposition we consider to be unjust.

Our bodies can sometimes govern how we think and feel, rather than the other way round. People who are more in tune with their bodies are more likely to be led by their ‘gut feelings’.

What happens in our bodies can sometimes shape how we think and feel in our minds. Everyday phrases like ‘following your heart’ and ‘trusting your gut’ can often, it seems, be accurate.

 


People who are more in tune with their bodies are more likely to be led by their ‘gut feelings.


 

Humans are highly attuned to unfairness and we are sometimes required to weigh up the demands of maintaining justice with preserving our own economic self-interest. At a time when ideas of fairness in the financial sector – from bankers’ bonuses to changes to pension schemes – are being widely debated, it is important to recognize why some individuals rebel against perceived unfairness, whereas other people are prepared to accept the status quo.

 


What happens in our bodies can sometimes shape how we think and feel in our minds.