Rationalism
Rationalism, derived from the Latin term ratio meaning "reason," is a philosophy that elevates human reason as the ultimate authority in all aspects of human experience. It places human intellect as the supreme and final arbiter of truth, often excluding divine revelation or supernatural elements. Types of Rationalism Pure Rationalism: This view asserts that reason alone, without assistance from sensory experience, is the source of all knowledge. It relies entirely on deductive reasoning, detached from empirical evidence. Empirical Rationalism: This perspective incorporates sensory experience as a means of gathering data, utilizing the scientific method to investigate and verify knowledge. However, even in this framework, human reason remains the sole foundation for understanding reality. Theological Rationalism Theological rationalism takes various forms but is unified by its elevation of reason over divine revelation. Deists and Pantheists: These groups reject the need f...