Argumentation Quote by Thomas Merton
“I would call the attention of the reader to the difference between "reason" and "reasoning." Reason is a light, reasoning a process. Reason is a faculty, reasoning an exercise of that faculty. Reasoning proceeds from one truth to another by means of argumentation. This generally involves the whole mind in labor and complexity. But reason does not exist merely in order to engage in reasoning. The process is a means to an end. The true fulfillment of reason as a faculty is found when it can embrace the truth simply and without labor in the light of single intuition.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton, 1948
Reason is a mental faculty, while reasoning is the active process of using that faculty to move between truths via argument. The faculty’s highest purpose is intuitive, effortless grasp of truth.
In simple terms: Reason is a faculty; reasoning is its use.
Key Takeaway
Seek intuitive clarity beyond complex argument.
Themes
philosophy
mind
intuition
reasoning
clarity
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
reflective
spiritual
When to use this quote
- academic study
- personal reflection
- spiritual practice
- decision making
Key Concepts
Epistemology
cognitive process
intuition
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance analytical reasoning with intuitive insight?
- When does reasoning hinder rather than help?
A Different Perspective
Reasoning can become overly analytical, obscuring simple insight.
![“They [human beings] are unwilling to gamble that God made those people who are skilled at rational argumentation uniquely virtuous. They protect themselves and others from cleverness by obscuring their preferences.” quote by James G. March](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/741/james-g-march-62233_argumentation_they-human-beings-are-unwilling-to-gambl_206941.jpg)
