What does irrationalist mean?
An irrationalist is a person whose beliefs, arguments, or methods are governed by something other than reason. In its principal sense, the word denotes someone who rejects reason as the proper basis of knowledge, inquiry, or judgment; it can also serve as a hostile label for a person seen as incapable or unwilling to think logically. The term normally carries a strongly negative connotation because it implies not merely an incorrect opinion but a defective or deliberately anti-rational approach. It is most often encountered in philosophical, political, or rhetorical disputes. In ordinary use, 'irrational' is usually clearer and less confrontational when the criticism concerns a particular decision or argument. An irrationalist differs from a rationalist chiefly in attitude: the former allegedly disregards reason, while the latter treats it as authoritative.
nounAn irrationalist is someone who rejects or is indifferent to reason as a standard of belief or inquiry. The term may also describe a person whose judgments or arguments are based on irrational principles.
- A person who rejects or is indifferent to reason as a standard of belief or inquiry.
- A person whose arguments or judgments are founded on irrational principles.
"Critics dismissed him as an irrationalist who refused to engage with the evidence."
"The philosopher dismissed the proposal as the work of an irrationalist."
"Rather than debate the evidence, he resorted to the tactics of an irrationalist."
The regular plural refers to multiple people regarded as rejecting reason or relying on irrational principles.
"The panel sought ways to engage the irrationalists without dismissing their concerns."
Calling someone an irrationalist turns criticism of their logic into a challenge to their entire approach to truth.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does irrationalist come from?
The word was formed in the early 19th century from the adjective 'irrational' and the suffix '-ist', a general term for a person who advocates or follows a particular doctrine. 'Irrational' derives from Latin 'irrationalis', itself based on 'ratio', meaning reason or calculation. The contrasting English word 'rational' comes through French from the same broad Latin root, linking reason, rationality, and irrationality.
How irrationalist is actually used
The term is pejorative when applied to another person and suggests a wholesale rejection of reason rather than merely a mistaken conclusion. It is less common than the general adjective 'irrational' and is chiefly used in argumentative or philosophical contexts.
Easily confused with irrationalist
An irrationalist rejects or disregards reason, whereas a rationalist regards reason as the principal basis of knowledge and judgment.
Irrational describes something contrary to reason, while an irrationalist is a person who holds or practices such views.