Rationalism (Tarkavaad)

Introduction

• Rationalism is a philosophical approach that works to change the way of thinking.
• It considers that the greatest weapon to understand the world is reason.
• Rationalism teaches us whether we can trust our senses or not.

Major Philosophers

• Descartes
• Spinoza
• Leibniz

Definition of Rationalism

• The principle of rationalism says that true knowledge and understanding can only be obtained through reason.
• The senses can sometimes give us false information.

Contribution of Descartes

• Descartes suggested putting one's knowledge into doubt.
• He stated, "I think, therefore I am" (Cogito, ergo sum).
• He pointed out that we should doubt the information received by our senses.

Contribution of Spinoza

• Spinoza stated that nature and God are not separate.
• According to him, everything is part of the same element which we call nature or God.
• This idea is known as Monism.

Contribution of Leibniz

• Leibniz presented the theory of "Pre-Established Harmony".
• He believed that everything is set in a perfect system.
• He argued that free will and pre-established harmony are not contradictory.

Conclusion

• Rationalism teaches us to rely on reason and skepticism to understand the truth.

• The ideas of Descartes, Spinoza, and Leibniz have helped us understand how we can comprehend nature and our decisions.

• Encouragement to Ask Questions: If anyone has any questions, they can ask in the comment section.

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Presenter: Rohit
Platform: Syllabus with Rohit