Definitions of rationality

In the simplest language possible, I need to define "reason"(n) and "rationality." We obviously have a grasp on the concepts involved with these words, but I'm wondering if anyone sees a distinction that is important between the two. Perhaps it might be beneficial to define "logic" in the discussion too.

Would reason/rationality be accurately defined as the process by which one determines a fact based on accurate premises?

Post 1

Monday, July 12, 2010 - 4:18pm

I don't have Rand's definitions of "reason," "rationality" or "logic" at hand, but I'm confident somebody will quote them for us.

Reason is a faculty of certain organisms, and rationality is a character trait. Neither is a process, though reasoning is.

We determine many facts by direct observation, not deduction. Where we aren't deducing, premises don't come into the picture. In the cases where you do use premises, reason is what enabled you to determine that they're true. Though I haven't worked it out, I suspect that your proposed definition would lead to circularity or infinite regress.

(Edited by Peter Reidy on 7/12, 4:19pm)

Post 2

Monday, July 12, 2010 - 5:19pm

"Reason is the faculty that identifies and integrates the material provided by man�s senses."

http://aynrandlexicon.com/lexicon/reason.html

"A rational process is a moral process. You may make an error at any step of it, with nothing to protect you but your own severity, or you may try to cheat, to fake the evidence and evade the effort of the quest�but if devotion to truth is the hallmark of morality, then there is no greater, nobler, more heroic form of devotion than the act of a man who assumes the responsibility of thinking."

http://aynrandlexicon.com/lexicon/rationality.html

Post 3

Tuesday, July 13, 2010 - 9:31am