Rationalist: Derived from the Latin words "rationalis" (rational) and "-ist" (person who supports or follows something).
Meaning:
A rationalist is an individual who believes that reason and logic are the primary means of understanding the world. They emphasize the use of intellectual inquiry, observation, and empirical evidence to form beliefs and judgments.
Origin:
The term "rationalism" emerged during the 17th century as a philosophical movement that emphasized the power of human reason.
It was in response to the rise of empiricism, which placed more importance on sensory experience.
Key figures associated with rationalism include René Descartes, Baruch Spinoza, and Gottfried Leibniz.
Characteristics of Rationalism:
Emphasis on reason: Rationalists believe that reason is the primary faculty for acquiring knowledge and understanding truth.
Deductive reasoning: Rationalism emphasizes the use of deductive reasoning, where conclusions are derived from general principles.
Innateness: Rationalists often argue that certain ideas and principles are innate, or present in the human mind from birth, rather than acquired through experience.
Mathematical certainty: Rationalists seek to establish knowledge with the same level of certainty and rigor as mathematical proofs.
Rejection of authority: Rationalists often question and reject traditional beliefs and authorities that are not supported by reason.
Universalism: Rationalists believe that rational principles are universally applicable to all people and cultures.
