Rationality: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the quality of being reasonable, based on facts or reason. Often used in philosophical, psychological, or decision-making scenarios.

• Her rationality helped her make clear and effective decisions.
• The philosopher debated the limits of human rationality.

Often used in contexts involving mathematics, computer science, or structured thinking. It refers to a systematic way of reasoning.

• Programming requires a strong understanding of logic.
• His argument was flawed because it lacked internal logic.

Refers to a cause or explanation for something. It can also mean the power of the mind to think and understand in a logical way. Commonly used in everyday conversation.

• There must be a good reason why he is late.
• She used reason to solve the problem instead of relying on emotions.

Typically used to describe the validity or reliability of an argument, plan, or construction. Often found in academic, financial, or engineering discussions.

• The soundness of the financial plan was questioned by the investors.
• Engineers checked the soundness of the bridge.

It is used to describe the quality of being based on or in accordance with reason or logic. Often used in discussions about decision-making, behavior, or arguments where logical thinking is important.

• His rationality was evident in the way he calculated the risks before making a decision.
• The scientist's approach was marked by a high level of rationality.

This phrase is used in economic or philosophical discussions to describe actions driven purely by the aim to benefit oneself as much as possible. It is often used when discussing theories that assume people act in ways to maximize their own benefit, sometimes perceived with a negative connotation.

• In his business, every decision was guided by self-interest maximization, ensuring he always got the best deal.
• Critics argue that self-interest maximization can lead to unethical behavior.