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irrationalism

American  
[ih-rash-uh-nl-iz-uhm] / ɪˈræʃ ə nlˌɪz əm /

noun

  1. irrationality in thought or action.

  2. an attitude or belief having a nonrational basis.

  3. a theory that nonrational forces govern the universe.


Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of irrationalism

First recorded in 1805–15; irrational + -ism


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

We cannot eradicate irrationalism and the threat it poses to society and nature.

From Salon ● Apr. 28, 2019

This vacuum is filled by strange concepts that hark back to the irrationalism of the 1930s.

From Washington Post ● Apr. 29, 2018

This work is necessary – but it can only proceed with a more sophisticated analysis of how today’s landscape of hyperrational power has coerced a new and increasingly potent irrationalism into existence.

From The Guardian ● Dec. 8, 2016

They become vulnerable to exploitation by astrologers, godmen, dubious pseudo-psychologists, corrupt politicians, and the whole mega-industry of irrationalism.

From Slate ● Jul. 7, 2012

Thus the objection of "irrationalism" directed against the new philosophy falls to the ground.

From A New Philosophy: Henri Bergson by Vincent Benson

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