I can't decide on an event that would have been a rational decision at one time but now is considered to be an irrational decision. I have been looking at the different wars but still don't see it.
The second Iraq war seemed logical to a lot of people at the time. President George W. Bush said he had information that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction. Congress believed that was cause enough to go to war. However, no traces of such weapons ever were found -- yet we were left with a mess there.
impact of decision making
To identify an event that was once rational but is now considered irrational, it's important to consider changes in societal values, knowledge, and perspectives with the passage of time. Here's a step-by-step process to help you find an example:
1. Research historical events: Start by exploring various historical events and periods. Look at major wars, revolutions, political and social movements, scientific discoveries, or any significant events that could have been considered rational at the time.
2. Understand the context: Once you have a list of events, delve into the historical context surrounding each. Consider the prevailing beliefs, political climate, cultural norms, scientific understanding, and technological advancements during that period to gain insight into the decision-making process.
3. Analyze changes over time: Next, examine how societal values, knowledge, and perspectives have evolved since the event took place. Analyze how these changes have influenced our perception of the event and whether it is now considered irrational, unethical, or unjustifiable.
4. Consider ethical or human rights aspects: Reflect on whether the event involved actions that are now widely regarded as unethical or in violation of human rights. Advances in morality, understanding, or acceptance of certain principles may have rendered a once-rational decision irrational by today's standards.
5. Examples to explore: Some potential examples to consider could include the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II, colonization and imperial rule, certain medical practices like lobotomies or bloodletting, or instances of discrimination and persecution based on race, gender, or religion.
Remember that historical events are complex, and perspectives on them may vary. It's important to analyze events from multiple angles, considering different historical interpretations and viewpoints to draw a comprehensive conclusion.