Perhaps. I am a big believer in the logic > emotion idea, especially in regards to tough decisions.

However Alistar's hardening never gave me the impression that he traded emotions for logic, he just seemed to become cold. He was far more negative generally and that's it, still rampant with emotion but in the other direction. That can be even worse because now everything he does is fueled by anger or bitterness, there won't be the motivation there to drive him to protect people which is ultimately what will be needed to help keep a kingdom together and keep people inspired. 

I mean, Alistair always seemed logical and realistic to me. He just didn't like said logic and realism get in the way of his charm or him having a good time.