What is an antonym for the word reason?

Answer 1

This would probably depend on the context in which the word reason is being used. In philosophy, theology and science, reason denotes the use of the mind to come to conclusions through logic, either applied in deductive or inductive reasoning. The antonym of such reason would be passion or instinct, which have build in conclusions that are innate and not reasoned.

Some use reason as to mean common sense, or reasonable action or response in a given circumstance, basically right thinking. Common sense, however, often relies on instinct or intuition, and hence there is a contradiction to the above use of reason. The antonym of this use of the word reason would be stupidity, silliness, injudiciousness or imprudence.

Many superstitions, either religious, cultural or personal, are seen as opposed to reason. Many religions, however, would argue this label, saying that they are not antonymous to reason as they are often built upon it through extremely developed philosophies and theologies.

Some people ask for reasons to do things, looking for justification and purpose. The antonym to this would be gratuitous action, insanity, or spontaneity.