Paradoxical self-deception: Maybe not so paradoxical after all

The simultaneous possession of conflicting beliefs is both possible and logical within current models of human cognition. Specifically, evidence of lateral inhibition and state-dependent memory suggests a means by which conflicting beliefs can coexist without requiring 'mental exotica'. We suggest that paradoxical self-deception enables the self-deceiver to store important information for use at a later time.