PsychologyAugust 28, 2026

nonrational

non-RASH-uh-nul

Definition

Not based on, governed by, or conforming to reason; existing outside the scope of rational analysis.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'non' meaning 'not' and 'rationalis' meaning 'of or relating to reason.' It entered English to describe something that does not fall within the realm of logical thought or intellect.

In the news

The author uses this term to describe aspects of human decision-making and Rand's own behavior that cannot be explained through pure reason, highlighting the limitations of her rigid, logic-focused philosophy.

Why I Believed Ayn Rand—and Why I Was Wrong

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