Irrationalism: meaning, definitions and examples
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irrationalism
[ ɪˌræʃ.əˈnæl.ɪ.zəm ]
philosophical concept
Irrationalism is a philosophical doctrine that emphasizes the role of irrational forces in shaping human experiences, beliefs, and actions. It posits that not all human behavior or cognition is based on rational thought or logical reasoning, often advocating for the importance of emotions, intuition, and instinct. This concept counters rationalism, which prioritizes reason and logical analysis.
Synonyms
emotionalism, irrationality, non-rationalism
Examples of usage
- The irrationalism of his arguments left many puzzled.
- She found comfort in the stories reflecting irrationalism.
- The rise of irrationalism in society can be observed during times of crisis.
Word origin
The term 'irrationalism' originated from the prefix 'ir-' meaning 'not' and the word 'rationalism', which itself stems from 'rational', derived from the Latin 'rationalis'. The concept rose to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a critique of the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason. Influential thinkers like Friedrich Nietzsche and Sigmund Freud contributed to the development of irrationalist philosophy by highlighting the significations of the unconscious mind and instinctual drives over purely rational thought. In the context of art and literature, movements like surrealism and expressionism also embraced elements of irrationalism, further shaping its meaning and influence in modern discourse.