Frankenstein Reason Theory

A meta-theoretical framework that extends Frankenstein Logic to the broader domain of practical reason. It argues that human reasoning in real-world contexts is not governed by a single, coherent set of rational principles but is instead assembled from multiple, sometimes conflicting, heuristics, biases, values, and norms. Drawing on bounded rationality, ecological rationality, and dual-process theory, it posits that reason is “Frankensteinian” because it cobbles together evolved instincts, learned rules, social conventions, and emotional responses—none of which are logically consistent with each other. Yet this patchwork works well enough for survival and social coordination. The theory challenges the ideal of the rational actor in economics and decision theory, showing that people reason through contradictory frames (e.g., utilitarian in one choice, deontological in another) without paralysis.

Example: “Frankenstein Reason Theory explains why she used cost-benefit analysis for buying a car but a deontological rule (‘never lie’) for a white lie—reason is stitched from incompatible fabrics.”

Frankenstein Reason Theory by Dumu The Void May 26, 2026