> Delusional thinking is a dysfunctional process almost by definition, since it produces invalid conclusions It does not automatically follow that invalid conc

> Delusional thinking is a dysfunctional process almost by definition, since it produces invalid conclusions It does not automatically follow that invalid conclusions are the result of a dysfunctional process. Another way to frame this is that a process that is stressed beyond its design parameters and fed inputs outside bounds of what is considered “normal” will result in invalid conclusions, where “valid” is based on a relatively new (in terms of the existence of human brains) understanding of science and ability to rigorously define validity. In other words, you and I may not be able to understand the delusions of those around us, but had we been subject to the same environmental factors, they might make perfect sense to us. I think the general point is that thinking that appears delusional doesn’t automatically indicate some inherent defect in the brain, and likely has causes that make sense if we could trace the history of inputs to the brain. The conclusion that we should be more open to engaging with delusional people and less quick to discard them outright seems like a reasonable one. Anecdotally, I have family who gravitate to certain conspiracy theories, and based on what I know of their traumatic past (war vet, physically abused), I understand why they have deeply embedded mistrust of government and other people that causes them to accept beliefs that help them make sense of their lived reality. They’re still otherwise very intelligent. Expert in their chosen craft, and capable of nuanced understanding of deeply technical subjects. But their human brains are also shaped by events that would likely have a similar impact on anyone else who went though the same set if life experiences. > That’s like saying that cancer is OK because it arises commonly in many humans I don’t think this analogy works. Cancer invades the body. Our cognition is something we all share, and the way it operates is not inherently dysfunctional, even while it is always susceptible to trauma and conditioning. And even in trauma, what appears “dysfunctional” externally is most likely helping the person survive.