rational inquiry

[ˈræʃənəl ɪnˈkwaɪəri]
nounpl: rational inquiries
investigação racional
1. A systematic and logical examination or investigation based on reason, evidence, and critical thinking rather than emotion or superstition
The scientist conducted a rational inquiry into the causes of climate change using empirical data.
O cientista conduziu uma investigação racional sobre as causas das mudanças climáticas usando dados empíricos.
2. The process of questioning and seeking answers through logical reasoning and methodical analysis
Rational inquiry requires an open mind and willingness to examine evidence objectively.
A investigação racional requer uma mente aberta e disposição para examinar as evidências objetivamente.
3. Philosophical or intellectual pursuit based on reason as the primary source of knowledge
The Enlightenment period emphasized rational inquiry as the path to understanding the natural world.
O período do Iluminismo enfatizava a investigação racional como o caminho para compreender o mundo natural.
The concept of 'rational inquiry' is deeply rooted in Western intellectual traditions, particularly the Enlightenment. In both Brazilian and American academic contexts, it represents the foundation of scientific method and critical thinking education. In Portugal and Brazil, the term is frequently used in philosophical and academic discourse to distinguish evidence-based investigation from superstition or traditional belief systems.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
logical investigationcritical examinationsystematic analysisreasoned inquiryempirical investigation
Antonyms / Antônimos
blind faithirrational beliefsuperstitiondogmatismemotional reasoning

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
investigação racional
Most common and widely understood term across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
investigação racional
Standard usage, sometimes shortened to 'indagação racional'
São Paulo
investigação racional; inquérito racional
Both terms used equally; academic preference for 'inquérito racional'
Portugal
investigação racional; inquérito racional
Portuguese preference for 'inquérito racional' in academic contexts

Related Words

rationalismskepticismempiricismcritical thinkingscientific methodlogicreasoningevidence-based

Related Idioms & Phrases

follow the evidence where it leads
use one's head
think critically
separate fact from fiction
apply reason to a problem
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