Why are people "put off by rationality"?

Biff Wiff

Why are people "put off by rationality"? — LessWrong

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I noticed that the people who didn't like the book were essentially put off by the rationality. They thought Harry was arrogant and condescending.

If they said that Harry was being arrogant and condescending, perhaps you shouldn't immediately translate this into your mind as "essentially put off by the rationality"?

In a previous version of the story (I believe Eliezer has since revised it, probably because he did realize it was going too far), Harry in one case called McGonnagal "Minerva" and considering calling her "Minnie", when McGonagall had been calling him "Mr Potter" throughout.

Harry has indeed been an arrogant and condescending little twit.

John_Maxwell12y30

That's true, but I also think that the culture of LW and the surrounding "rationalist" community is a fairly arrogant culture, and not all rational-thinking cultures are like this (compare the number of scientific papers that say "more research is needed" vs "our paper pretty much settles this issue"). Personally I suspect that a culture less arrogant than the LW "rationalist" community is optimal. For example, Paul Graham nails it IMO... he says controversial stuff and questions establishment views, but does so in thoughtful, evenhanded, polite way.

6Gavin12y

I would go even further and point out how Harry's arrogance is good for the story. Here's my approach to this critique: "You're absolutely right that Harry!HPMOR is arrogant and condescending. It is a clear character flaw, and repeatedly gets in the way of his success. As part of a work of fiction, this is exactly how things should be. All people have flaws, and a story with a character with not flaws wouldn't be interesting to read! Harry suffers significantly due to this trait, which is precisely what a good author does with their characters. Later on there is an entire section dedicated to Harry learning "how to lose," and growing to not be quite as blind in this way. If his character didn't have anywhere to develop, it wouldn't be a very good story!"

-1Biff Wiff12y

I agree that in some instances Harry has acted a bit immature and disrespectful. However... 1. I don't think he does it too often. Most of the time I think he's just challenging people's beliefs (justifiably). 2. He's demonstrated that he's an incredibly caring and selfless person, both admirable qualities. He's dedicated to making the world a better place, and is willing to sacrifice himself to do so. Shouldn't that outweigh a little bit of immaturity?

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