Reason
Reason is the mental faculty that allows individuals to think logically, form judgments, and draw conclusions. It is often contrasted with emotion, instinct, or faith. In both Western and Indian philosophy, reason has been viewed as the foundation of human knowledge, science, and ethics.
In classical philosophy, reason is considered the highest function of the human soul. Plato and Aristotle regarded it as the key to understanding reality and achieving virtue. Enlightenment thinkers emphasized reason as the primary tool for progress and human freedom.
Modern philosophers and psychologists view reason as a cognitive ability that enables problem-solving, abstract thinking, and planning. While some thinkers see reason as supreme, others argue that it must be balanced with emotion and intuition to understand the full complexity of human life.
Thus, reason is essential not only for intellectual pursuits but also for moral and social decision-making.