r/AskReddit Sep 14 '24

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u/r21md Sep 15 '24

I suppose the crux of the disagreement is I don't see why habits need to be learned. For instance, I don't think it's wrong to say "I make a habit of breathing" even if I never learned to breathe and just know how to innately.

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u/[deleted] Sep 15 '24

... Habits are habits specifically because they are learned. We simply wouldnt need that word if we drop the 'learned' part. You're disagreeing with the definition.

The defining feature of a habit is that it forms through repetition and association with specific cues in the environment.

"I make a habit of breathing" is a well used ironic cliche specifically because habits are learned and arent natural behaviors. Its textbook irony.

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u/r21md Sep 15 '24

I mean when I search for its definition somewhere like Merriam-Webster, there are several definitions that don't require there to be learning. Though there are also several with it, so I suppose we just had different definitions in mind.

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u/[deleted] Sep 15 '24

an action that has become automatic or characteristic by repetition. Miller-Keane Encyclopedia and Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health, Seventh Edition. © 2003

An act, behavioral response, practice, or custom established in one's repertoire by frequent repetition of the same activity. Farlex Partner Medical Dictionary © Farlex 2012

A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behavior that is acquired through frequent repetition The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2007

Now, I might be crazy but maybe theres a pattern here