rationalism rationalism /ˈræʃənəlɪzəm/

noun

1. () (philosophy) the doctrine that knowledge is acquired by reason without resort to experience  ( rationalism )
   (philosophy) the doctrine that knowledge is acquired by reason without resort to experience
   
2. The doctrine that reason is the right basis for regulating conduct  ( freethinking , rationalism )
   the doctrine that reason is the right basis for regulating conduct
   
3. The theological doctrine that human reason rather than divine revelation establishes religious truth  ( rationalism )
   the theological doctrine that human reason rather than divine revelation establishes religious truth