Reason
The original Greek word Logos is translated as Thought. The words Logic, Ratio, Reason and Raison are used interchangeably. As per Indian System, Reason is known as Hetu, literally translated as motivation or that which is the intention. It is also known as Linga or the mark. The Sadhya/Lingi or the Conclusion is drawn on the basis of invariable concomitance between the Linga and Lingi. Reason is described as the cause of something or the Nature of something or through non-observation.
Various philosophers have had various views about the concept of Reason. The Stoics propagated the Natural Theory of Law and according to them there exists a natural principle and the principle is Reason which is the same as God and is the basis of Law and Justice. The Law of Nature meant the Reason that applied equally to everyone around the world irrespective of nationality. The Stoics advocated a yogic kind of lifestyle free from passions and based on Rationality. They believed in a world- state where all men lived harmoniously under the Divine Reason.[1] Cicero, the Roman Lawyer and Statesman was a follower of Stoic Philosophy who also stated that the Divine Reason is unalterable and God is its author, promulgator and Judge. Cicero defined a reasonable man as, “the disposition of his mind to give everyone his due.” This attitude was equated with Justice by Cicero.[2] Saint Augustine`s theory was more like the Satyug concept of Hinduism. When men behaved according to Reason there was Peace, Justice and Equality. There was also no death.[3] Jean Jacques Burlamaqui also pointed out that Reason was a means to attain happiness.[4] According to Thomas Aquinas, it is the voice of Reason that makes us realize morally good and bad actions.[5]
After going through the various theories of Reason of various philosophers, we understand that they spoke of Reason in contradiction to passions. They spoke of Reason as behaviour that is thoughtful and actions that are appropriate and in order. There is emphasis of the cause-effect concept in order to maximise happiness and minimize pain. Reason, therefore, implies objectivity devoid of projected views of the person.
[1] Bodenheimer Edgar, Jurisprudence -The Philosophy and the Method of the Law, Harvard University Press 1981, London, pg 13.
[2]Ibid, pg 14.
[3] Ibid, pg 22.
[4]Ibid, pg 38.
[5]Ibid, pg 24.