Definition of Rationality

Based on the previous study, it can be seen that the difference between Chinese culture and Western culture actually lies in the divergence between their religious beliefs. China lacked religion and developed rationality early. Thus, it won't do if no definition of rationality is given. To my understanding, rationality is an essentially human characteristic, and at the same time, the key to understanding Chinese cultural characteristics. As it will be the most important concept in this book, it is crucial for us to discuss it here, though an explication of it would require a whole book.

What is rationality? First, I will say this: rationality starts from thinking and speaking. Men are animals in their actions. But at the same time, they can tell the difference between actions reflecting benign speaking or thinking and actions reflecting subtle speaking or thinking. Dynamic actions can belie a quiet nature and quiet actions can belie a dynamic nature. As regards thinking and speaking, there is a belief in psychology that “thinking is silent speaking and speaking is voiced thinking.” Originally, there was no need to make a distinction between them. Sure enough, rationality starts from thinking and speaking. But that man can think and speak is attributed to his very rationality. It is necessary to make a further distinction between them, therefore.

So, are you willing to work out where rationality lies? You may observe other people or engage in self-reflection: when they stay calm and reasonable without any distracting thoughts in mind, when they can most effectively take in what other people say, and when it is the easiest for two speakers to accept what each other says, that is the very moment at which a person possesses rationality. This so-called “rationality” means nothing more than the peaceful and sensible state of this mind of ours. It seems rather simple and ordinary, but it is indeed the most treasured state in the universe. In all creation, the only species that has never been stuck at a mechanical stage of development is human beings. And among human beings, the only characteristic that has never remained mechanical is their rationality.