To What Extent Are We Characterized by Intellect and Reason?

This, along with a second question on the topic of emotions, is the overarching question for the fourth unit in my Philosophy of Human Nature course. The full question is: In what ways are we characterized by our intellect and reasoning abilities? How do other mental functions like will and emotion contribute to our understanding of what it is to be human? Today our initial thoughts were due, so now I’m enshrining my answers here for all to read and discuss. Within the first few days of April you can return to find my longer essay on this question awaiting your reading pleasure.