rationalism Meaning & Definition
/ˈɹæʃ(ə)nəlɪzəm/
What Does Rationalism Mean?
As a noun, rationalism means The theory that reason is a source of knowledge independent of and superior to sense perception. It is also used to mean The theory that knowledge may be derived by deductions from a priori concepts (such as axioms, postulates or earlier deductions).
Rationalism: Key Facts
| Part of speech | noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈɹæʃ(ə)nəlɪzəm/ |
| Synonyms | freethinking, apriorism and intellectualism |
| Antonyms | sensationalism, irrationalism and traditionalism |
| Plural | rationalisms |
Rationalism Definition (Noun)
- The theory that reason is a source of knowledge independent of and superior to sense perception.
- The theory that knowledge may be derived by deductions from a priori concepts (such as axioms, postulates or earlier deductions).
- A view that the fundamental method for problem solving is through reason and experience rather than faith, inspiration, revelation, intuition or authority.
- Elaboration of theories by use of reason alone without appeal to experience, such as in mathematical systems.
- The rationalist community or its ideology.
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Noun
- The theory that the reason is a source of knowledge independent of and superior to sense perception.
Synonyms of Rationalism
Rationalism synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Rationalism
Word Forms & Grammar
rationalism (countable and uncountable, plural rationalisms)
Origin of Rationalism
From rational + -ism.
Quick Answers About Rationalism
What part of speech is rationalism?
Rationalism is a noun.
What is another word for rationalism?
You can replace rationalism with words such as freethinking, apriorism and intellectualism. See the full list of rationalism synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of rationalism?
Antonyms of rationalism include sensationalism, irrationalism, traditionalism and mysticism.
What is the plural of rationalism?
The plural of rationalism is rationalisms.