We want binary

We humans tend towards binary, binary values.

The human body, and even the brain, are completely analog, with continuous values in a large range. Often algorithmic. For example we hear even very small differences in whispers, but only large changes in loud sounds like a jackhammer. However, our mind tends towards binary values: good-bad, much-little.

In order to decide something, plan actions, establish relationships, we need to know if something is good or bad, acceptable or unacceptable, desirable or undesirable, new or old, masculine or feminine.

And in fact, NOTHING can be categorized like that. Not in an absolute sense. Only relatively, in relation to something or someone or sometime.

For example, compared to person X I am a sickly neat creature, and compared to person Y I am a disgustingly messy creature. So, am I neat or messy? Both, neither. Because all this can only be determined IN RELATION with someone else.

That's why we resort to rules, so we think we can determine this in relation to the rule. Am I being polite or rude if I look you in the eye when you speak to me? But nothing is absolute, it depends on the culture and whether you are "higher" or "lower in the hierarchy" than me.

In Western culture, it is polite to look into the eyes of the interlocutor, no matter who he is. While in some Far Eastern cultures it is a sign of disrespect to an "elder", it is considered to show that we think we are equal to him.

It is difficult for us to deal with shifting, floating criteria. When something, some X, is good, acceptable, desirable in one situation, but not in another? When is the amount of Y sometimes too much and sometimes too little?

We would simple, firm, safe rules. And that does not exist in nature, so neither does it exist in society.

That's why people embrace the Bible, ideology, corporate identity, titles, traditions - they provide the framework. We have the feeling that everything is clear, well defined, objectively measurable. Then you don't need to harness your mind, you don't need to be double-minded about your decision, the responsibility can be transferred to someone else. And the feeling of protection, safety in the shelter of like-minded people is greater.

It is tiring, difficult and uncertain to always judge for yourself what to do and what not to do. What to be and what not to be. Resist urges, urges, instincts - or follow them. To carry all the responsibility on your shoulders. Constantly fighting with doubts and doubts.