1. the belief that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge and truth
Usage: philosophy
2. the practice of treating reason as the ultimate authority in religion or politics

Examples

• Descartes is often considered the father of modern rationalism.
• The Enlightenment promoted rationalism over superstition.
• Her rationalism led her to question traditional beliefs.
• The debate between rationalism and empiricism shaped modern philosophy.
• Scientific rationalism requires evidence-based conclusions.
• His political rationalism emphasized logical policy-making.
• Rationalism influenced many educational reforms in the 18th century.