Reason as a Way of Knowing and Thinking

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Reason as a way of knowing denotes constructing meaning by modifying and justifying ideas and beliefs based on new or existing information. The term logic, meaning deriving from the use of valid information, is used synonymously with reason, and is recognized as a branch of reasoning. Reason is a way of thinking and the word logic describes the way reasoning follows certain rules and standards. When making a claim to knowledge, coherent reason and consistency are expected to support and provide stability to an argument. Reason plays the role of discovery, creation, and justification in knowledge claims. When a dispute or argument occurs, validity of logic and appropriateness of reason are essential elements in not only justification of one’s point of view, but also in the acceptance of reliability of one’s knowledge. The advantages of discriminating between valid and invalid arguments, good and bad reason, and more or less persuasive reasoning are found in increased problem solving skill, the acquired ability to recognize important ethical and moral values in society, and the advantage of flexibility found in arguments or disagreements where opposition is encountered.
The value of reason in problem solving is seen in fields such as mathematics. Mathematical logic, a division of mathematics, explores the application of formal logic to analyze mathematical equations. The field was created in an effort examine the consistency and validity of foundational theorems. Using reason and logic, theories are evaluated with large, complex number schemes to determine if the answer is indeed logical, based on whether or not it can satisfy a common rule with consistency (Crossley et al. 82). Reason also applies to other areas of problem solving...

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... allow for the individual to be extremely coherent and precise, a necessary ability for clear communication and understanding.
The advantages reason presents to both individuals and society are necessary and valuable in communication, justification, and problem solving. Reason enhances our ability to understand each other, those around us, and in a bigger sense, the world. Reason exists in everyday decision making and problem solving throughout many aspects of knowledge. The requirements of logical validity serve throughout the everyday experiences of individuals and society as a whole. In disputes and contradiction, the issue is not the only subject of the matter, but the validation of reason is essential in reaching the conclusion. In this way reason unites us all as a method of coming together to understand and accept each other no matter what our views may be.

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