a relation of reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a relation of reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in philosophical or logical discussions to describe a connection or relationship that is based on reasoning or rationality rather than empirical evidence. Example: "In philosophy, a relation of reason is often contrasted with a relation of fact, highlighting the difference between logical connections and observable realities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It is at this point that the medieval notion of a relation of reason (relatio rationis) becomes relevant.

SEP

Like many other medievals, therefore, Aquinas concludes that in this case the relations (or relative dispositions) are not real, but mere beings of reason.[39] The claim that self-identity is a relation of reason might seem worrisome.

SEP

As we have seen, it was to avoid saying that Socrates is signified by the concept 'thought about', when he is being thought about by Simmias, that medieval philosophers invoked the notion of a relation of reason: it is not Socrates, but a relation of reason, they say, that corresponds to the concept in question, and in this way avoid the consequence that a substance such as Socrates is a relation.

SEP

The notion of a being of reason, or more specifically the notion of a relation of reason, does not appear to have been invoked in the Latin West before the thirteenth century, when Aristotle's Metaphysics and certain Muslim philosophical commentaries and treatises derived from it began to circulate widely.

SEP

The notion of a relation of reason is not to be found explicitly in the works of Aristotle, though he does distinguish beings of reason in general from real beings (cf. Metaphysics IV, 1, esp. 1003a32-b11 and V, 7, esp. 1017a31 35).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For example, by the end of thirteenth century, most philosophers use it to explain the doctrine of creation, saying that creatures are related to God by a real relation, whereas God is related to them by a mere relation of reason (cf. Henninger 1989).

SEP

Thus, when a substance acquires a new relation without undergoing any real change this is often explained by saying that the substance acquired a mere relation of reason.[37] Finally, some medieval philosophers use relations of reason to identify a sense in which God can have accidents after all.

SEP

This is the way Jan Cover puts it: Temporal priority depends on a relation of "involves a reason for" (Cover, 317).

SEP

Instead of probing such contexts, Wilken provides a condensed summary of patristic thought on big questions: the image and likeness of God, the relation of reason to faith, the apparent duality of Christ ("not my will but thine").

The New York Times - Books

In Book IV Chapters XVII, XVIII and XIX Locke deals with the nature of reason, the relation of reason to faith and the nature of enthusiasm.

SEP

Book IV, the culmination of the previous reflections, explains the nature and limits of knowledge, probability, and the relation of reason and faith.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a relation of reason", ensure the context clearly indicates a connection established through logical thought rather than empirical observation.

Common error

Avoid using "a relation of reason" when describing connections based on emotional or empirical grounds; this phrase specifically denotes a relationship derived from logical or rational processes.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a relation of reason" is to act as a noun phrase, typically functioning as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a specific type of relationship characterized by logical reasoning as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a relation of reason" is a noun phrase used to describe a connection based on logical reasoning rather than empirical evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, though its usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in scientific and academic contexts. When writing, ensure the context aligns with logical connections to avoid misinterpretation. Consider alternatives like "a logical relationship" or "a rational connection" for similar meanings. Understanding its function, purpose, and register helps in employing it effectively in appropriate settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a connection based on logic

Emphasizes the logical foundation of the relationship.

a rational association

Highlights the rationality and coherence of the association.

a logical link

Focuses on the direct and deductive nature of the connection.

a reasoned correlation

Stresses the use of reason in establishing the correlation.

an intellectual bond

Suggests a connection that is primarily intellectual and cognitive.

a cognitive link

Highlights the cognitive and mental aspect of the connection.

a conceptual relationship

Emphasizes the abstract and conceptual nature of the relationship.

a deductive association

Focuses on the deductive reasoning behind the association.

a relationship of understanding

Highlights mutual comprehension as the foundation of the relationship.

a link based on rationality

Underscores rationality as the basis for the connection.

FAQs

What does "a relation of reason" mean in philosophy?

In philosophy, "a relation of reason" refers to a connection or relationship that is established through logical reasoning and rational thought, often contrasted with relationships based on empirical evidence or direct observation.

How can I use "a relation of reason" in a sentence?

You can use "a relation of reason" to describe a connection between ideas or concepts that is justified by logical inference, such as, "The philosopher argued that there is "a relation of reason" between cause and effect".

What are some alternatives to "a relation of reason"?

Alternatives to "a relation of reason" include phrases like "a logical relationship", "a rational connection", or "a reasoned correlation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a relation of reason" the same as "a causal relation"?

While a causal relation might involve reason, "a relation of reason" is broader. It encompasses any connection established through logical thought, whereas a causal relation specifically implies a cause-and-effect relationship. They are related but not interchangeable.