noun
rationalism
Rationalism (noun) means the idea that reason alone can give us knowledge, and that it ranks above what our senses tell us.
noun
1
The idea that reason alone can give us knowledge, and that it ranks above what our senses tell us.
2
The idea that knowledge can be worked out logically from basic principles taken as true from the start.
3
The belief that problems are best solved using logic and experience rather than faith, gut feeling or accepted authority.
4
Building up theories purely through logical thought, without relying on real-world experience, as in mathematics.
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Related words
Rhymes for rationalism
realism
fatalism
idealism
globalism
socialism
vandalism
federalism
radicalism
capitalism
liberalism
surrealism
journalism
See all rhymes for rationalism →
Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of rationalism?
"rationalism" (noun) means the idea that reason alone can give us knowledge, and that it ranks above what our senses tell us.
What is another word for rationalism?
Other words for "rationalism" include freethinking.
What is the opposite of rationalism?
Opposites of "rationalism" include empiricism, superstition.
What are the different meanings of rationalism?
"rationalism" has 3 main meanings: 1. The idea that reason alone can give us knowledge, and that it ranks above what our senses tell us; 2. The idea that knowledge can be worked out logically from basic principles taken as true from the start; 3. The belief that problems are best solved using logic and experience rather than faith, gut feeling or accepted authority.