rationalism, in Western philosophy, the view that regards reason as the chief source and test of knowledge. Holding that reality itself has an inherently logical structure, the rationalist asserts that a class of truths exists that the intellect can grasp directly.

What does a rationalist believe about knowledge?

Rationalist thinkers believe that knowledge, or our understanding of truth, is acquired without sense perception. In other words, knowledge is acquired through a secular outlook, which is an outlook that is absent of religious influence.

Do rationalists believe in God?

Rationalism is an approach to life based on reason and evidence. However, most rationalists would agree that: ... There is no evidence for any arbitrary supernatural authority e.g. God or Gods.