Why Is Consciousness Sometimes More Powerful Than Manas?

Consciousness possesses a strong capacity for analytical thinking and reasoning, while the mental faculty (manas) does not understand principles and must therefore follow the reasoning presented by consciousness. Frequently, the mental faculty is indecisive and must accept the arrangements made by consciousness. If this were not the case, the mental faculty would perpetually act according to its own habitual tendencies, refusing to heed consciousness. Consequently, the mental faculty would never comprehend true principles, never embark on the path of learning and practicing Buddhism, never eradicate afflictions, and never attain Buddhahood. In a family, the head of the household makes decisions, yet there are times when they must listen to the children's opinions and accommodate their requests. Similarly, in a nation, the president must also heed public opinion.