The Inner GPS

A theoretical model for integrating rational and transrational paths of cognition

Abstract

Transrational paths of cognition such as intuition or inspiration play a self-evident, though often unrecognized role in the history of mankind as well as in the professional and private everyday life of many individuals. In this article, with the inner GPS, a model is presented that differentiates four transrational paths of cognition and relates them to the rational mind: intuition or gut intelligence, inspiration or insight, heart intelligence as an ethical sense, and intention as a formative force. In addition to the differentiation in function and appearance, six common characteristics of transrational paths of cognition are also discussed, which can help to distinguish them from fantasies, emotional or prerational content. Furthermore, the difference between prerational beliefs, a rational-empirical understanding of logic, and a transrational, non-linear, and acausal experience of reality will be discussed.