1. Plural of irrationalism; philosophical or intellectual positions that reject reason as the primary basis for knowledge or decision-making.
Usage: philosophy; formal
2. Instances or expressions of irrational behavior, thinking, or belief systems that prioritize emotion, intuition, or faith over logic.
Usage: general use

Examples

• The philosopher critiqued various irrationalisms that had emerged in 19th-century European thought.
• Different irrationalisms compete in the marketplace of ideas, each claiming special insight.
• The rise of irrationalisms during times of social crisis often reflects public distrust of institutions.
• Some scholars argue that certain irrationalisms contain valuable truths that pure reason cannot capture.
• The debate between rationalists and proponents of irrationalisms continues in contemporary epistemology.
• Historical irrationalisms have shaped art, literature, and political movements across cultures.