Meaning: This quote by Wilford Cross delves into the concept of the human mind and its relationship with rationality and irrationality. The metaphor of the rational mind being a "shore upon a continent of the irrational" conjures imagery of a small, precarious outpost of reason in the midst of a vast and untamed wilderness of irrationality. The quote suggests that while reason and rationality are essential aspects of the human mind, they are relatively limited in scope and influence when compared to the vast expanse of irrational thoughts, emotions, and instincts that permeate human consciousness.

The notion that the rational mind is a "shallow thing" is particularly thought-provoking. It implies that, despite its importance, rationality represents only a small fraction of the human experience. The shallowness of the rational mind suggests that it is easily overshadowed, overwhelmed, or influenced by the deeper, more primal forces of irrationality that lie beneath the surface of conscious thought. This idea challenges the traditional view of human cognition as primarily rational and logical, highlighting the complex interplay between reason and irrationality within the human psyche.

Furthermore, the image of "thin colonies of reason" settling amid a "savage world" evokes a sense of vulnerability and precariousness. It paints a picture of reason as a fragile and isolated presence within the vast and tumultuous landscape of the irrational. The use of the word "savage" to describe the world of irrationality suggests a wild, untamed, and potentially dangerous environment in which reason must struggle to establish and maintain its presence.

Wilford Cross's quote raises important questions about the nature of human consciousness and the interplay between reason and irrationality. It prompts us to consider the extent to which our thoughts, beliefs, and actions are truly rational, as well as the ways in which irrational impulses, emotions, and biases may influence our decision-making processes. The quote challenges us to recognize the complexity and depth of the human mind, acknowledging that rationality is just one aspect of a much broader and more intricate psychological landscape.

From a psychological perspective, the quote can be interpreted in the context of theories of dual-process reasoning, which posit that human thought processes can be characterized as a combination of intuitive, automatic, and often irrational thinking (referred to as System 1) and deliberate, analytical, and rational thinking (referred to as System 2). This perspective aligns with Cross's depiction of the rational mind as a "shore" or outpost within the larger "continent of the irrational," highlighting the coexistence and interplay of these two modes of thinking within the human mind.

In addition, the quote has implications for philosophy, particularly in the realm of existentialism and the exploration of the human condition. Existentialist thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus grappled with questions of human freedom, responsibility, and the struggle to find meaning in a seemingly irrational and indifferent world. Cross's quote resonates with these existentialist themes, suggesting that the human mind is situated within a reality that is not fully rational or predictable, and that our capacity for reason exists in tension with the irrational forces that shape our experiences and perceptions.

Moreover, the quote invites reflection on the ways in which society and culture influence the balance between reason and irrationality within the human mind. Cultural norms, beliefs, and value systems can shape the boundaries of rational thought and influence the expression of irrational impulses, emotions, and desires. The quote prompts us to consider how societal structures and expectations may impact the development and expression of rationality and irrationality within individuals and communities.

In conclusion, Wilford Cross's quote offers a profound and evocative exploration of the human mind and its relationship with reason and irrationality. By depicting the rational mind as a fragile outpost within a vast and untamed wilderness of irrationality, the quote challenges us to consider the complex interplay between these two aspects of human cognition. It invites contemplation of the psychological, philosophical, and cultural dimensions of rationality and irrationality, prompting us to recognize the depth and complexity of the human experience.