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I would warn against too much of a radical devotion to rationality. Rationality is an illusion, an invented concept, a construct from the mind of man. It is not a property of the universe. Rationality may be a useful tool when it suits our purposes, however, it is merely a measuring stick, calibrated against what we know of the nature of the universe - all of which may or may not be completely inaccurate.

Derek R. Audette#24

PhilosophyTruthRationalityReasonScience

About this quote

What does it mean?
Rationality is a human tool not a universal property, so relying on it too much is risky.
In plain terms
Rationality is a made-up tool that helps us but is not always accurate about reality.
What can you take from it?
Use reason as a tool but know it has limits and might be wrong.

Where it applies

  • scientific debate
  • philosophical inquiry
  • decision making

Putting it to work

  • question assumptions
  • balance emotion and logic
  • test rational models

Questions to consider

  • Is reason a property of the universe or just our minds?
  • How do you trust your tools?

Another view

Rationality has been the most reliable method humans have for understanding reality.

More from Derek R. Audette

  1. An unbending and absolute acceptance of any idea is a sure sign of a small mind, no matter the greatness of intellect possesed by the one accepting that idea.

    Permalink to quote #23
  2. Infinity is just zero spelled backwards.

    Permalink to quote #25
  3. Faith, contrary to popular opinion, is not a belief in spite of a lack of evidence. Faith is what someone else believes, in spite of a lack of what you, person…

    Permalink to quote #22

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