**One mind, two forces**
The examples highlighted in the previous chapter show there are two sides to our brain, the emotional and the rational, and they manifest in surprising ways.
Jonathan Haidt has a useful analogy for how these two parts influence the way we make decisions: The elephant and the rider.
Prefers quick gratification over long term, but gets things done. This is the elephant.
Responsible for planning and direction, but can become paralysed by overthinking things. This is the rider.
These are also what we've been referring to as System 1 and System 2, as they're more commonly known thanks to Daniel Kahneman's Thinking Fast and Slow.
Haidt’s rider, sat atop the elephant, has the clearest view of the path ahead and of the best route to go. The elephant provides the raw power that keeps them moving forward.
However the elephant is irrational and driven by emotion and instinct. While the rider holds the reins and seems to be in charge, their control depends on the acquiescence of the elephant, which is both bigger and stronger.
Should the elephant and the rider disagree about which way to go, the elephant has the final say.
