Reason

Definition

Reason refers to the capacity for logical, rational thinking, which was highly valued during the 18th and 19th centuries as a means of understanding the world and guiding human behavior. This emphasis on reason led to significant advancements in philosophy, science, and literature, marking a departure from previous traditions that prioritized emotion and superstition. It also laid the groundwork for the Enlightenment, where thinkers sought to apply reason to every aspect of life, from politics to morality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reason was central to Neoclassicism, which sought to emulate the rationality and order of classical antiquity while emphasizing clarity and structure in literature.
2. The philosophes were advocates for reason as they critiqued society and promoted ideas of liberty, equality, and progress based on rational thought.
3. Neoclassical poetry often utilized reason to explore themes of morality, ethics, and human nature, reflecting the belief that art should serve a didactic purpose.
4. The reliance on reason during this era contributed to scientific advancements and the questioning of traditional beliefs, leading to a shift towards secularism.
5. The concept of reason also influenced political thought, encouraging ideas of democracy and social contracts based on rational principles rather than divine right or tradition.

Review Questions

• How did reason shape the literary characteristics of Neoclassicism?
  • Reason played a crucial role in shaping Neoclassical literature by promoting clarity, order, and structure in writing. Authors sought to reflect the rational principles of classical antiquity, emphasizing logic over emotion. This approach encouraged the use of formal styles and strict poetic forms, ensuring that literature was not only aesthetically pleasing but also intellectually engaging.
• Discuss how the philosophes utilized reason in their critiques of society and its institutions.
  • The philosophes used reason as a powerful tool to analyze and critique societal norms and institutions during the Enlightenment. By applying logical thinking to issues like governance, religion, and human rights, they challenged traditional authority and advocated for reforms based on rational principles. This intellectual movement aimed to illuminate social injustices and promote ideals such as liberty and equality through reasoned argumentation.
• Evaluate the impact of reason on both literature and political thought during the 18th century.
  • Reason had a profound impact on both literature and political thought during the 18th century. In literature, it fostered Neoclassicism's emphasis on order and moral lessons, creating works that aimed to instruct as well as entertain. Politically, the application of reason led to revolutionary ideas about democracy and governance that challenged established hierarchies. This synergy between literary expression and political philosophy ultimately contributed to transformative changes in society by promoting ideals rooted in rational discourse.

Related terms

Enlightenment:

An intellectual movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority, shaping modern Western thought.

Rationalism:

A philosophical approach that asserts that reason is the primary source of knowledge and truth, often contrasted with empiricism.

Empiricism:

The theory that knowledge arises primarily from sensory experience and observation, highlighting a different aspect of understanding compared to reason.