Logical vs. Rational: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 28, 2024
Logical refers to clear, reasoned thinking based on facts and inference, while rational is based on reason or logic, often involving practicality and the ability to make sound judgments.
Key Differences
Logical implies a methodical or reasoned approach, where conclusions are drawn from established principles or facts. It often involves a step-by-step progression of thoughts. Rational, on the other hand, pertains to reasoning that is sensible and sound, focusing on what is practical or realistic. It encompasses judgments or decisions that are based on reason or logic, but also factors in practicality and feasibility.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
In the realm of philosophy and mathematics, logical thinking is highly structured, often following strict principles like syllogisms or mathematical proofs. It adheres to formal rules and is sometimes devoid of emotional considerations. Rational thinking, while also grounded in logic, often incorporates a broader scope, including emotional intelligence and subjective experience, to make decisions or judgments that are not only logically sound but also pragmatic.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
The application of logical thinking is prominent in computer programming and formal sciences, where precise and unambiguous reasoning is paramount. Rational thinking, however, is more commonly applied in everyday decision-making, where practicality and efficiency are key, even if it means occasionally deviating from strictly logical procedures.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
A logical argument is one where the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises. If the premises are true, the conclusion cannot be false. A rational argument might include the same logical structure, but also considers the relevance and realism of the premises, ensuring that they are not just true, but also applicable and practical in a given context.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Logical thinking is often associated with the objective assessment of facts, where emotion and personal bias are minimized. Rational thinking, while it also values objectivity, does not discount subjective factors such as personal values, beliefs, and experiences, which can play a significant role in decision-making processes.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Basis of Thought
Strict adherence to rules of formal logic
Practicality and efficiency in decision-making
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Feb 28, 2024
Scope
Often narrow, focusing on factual accuracy and consistency
Broad, including practical considerations and subjective elements
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Feb 28, 2024
Application
Predominant in sciences and mathematics
Widespread in everyday life and practical affairs
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Feb 28, 2024
Decision Making
Based strictly on factual and logical consistency
Balances logic with practicality and emotional intelligence
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Emotion and Bias
Minimized or excluded
Considered as part of the reasoning process
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Feb 28, 2024
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Logical and Rational Definitions
Logical
Characterized by clear, sound reasoning.
The detective’s logical approach solved the mystery.
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Rational
Having the ability to reason soundly.
A rational person wouldn't make such a risky investment.
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Logical
Pertaining to an expected or natural outcome or sequence.
It’s logical to wear a coat when it's cold outside.
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Rational
Based on clear, sensible reasoning.
Her decision to save money was a rational choice.
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Logical
Based on facts and a clear sequence of reasoning.
Her argument was logical and convincing.
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Jan 11, 2024
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Rational
Involving logical and sensible judgment.
Choosing the most efficient route was a rational decision.
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Logical
Pertaining to clear, methodical reasoning.
Solving a complex math problem requires logical thinking.
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Logical
Consistent with the rules of formal logic.
His conclusion was logical, given the premises.
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Rational
Consistent with or based on reason or good judgment; logical or sensible
Rational decisions.
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Logical
Of, relating to, in accordance with, or of the nature of logic
Logical disputation.
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Rational
Of sound mind; sane
Wondered if the eccentric neighbor was not completely rational.
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Logical
Based on earlier or otherwise known statements, events, or conditions; reasonable
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year.
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Rational
(Mathematics) Capable of being expressed as a quotient of integers.
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Logical
Reasoning or capable of reasoning in a clear and consistent manner
A very logical person.
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Rational
Logically sound; not self-contradictory or otherwise absurd.
His statements were quite rational.
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Logical
(not comparable) Of or pertaining to logic.
It's not logical, it's God!
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Rational
(of a person or personal characteristics) Healthy or balanced intellectually; exhibiting reasonableness.
Rational conduct
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Logical
(computing) Relating to the conceptual model of a system rather than its physical expression
Logical memory appears contiguous to an application program, but may well be stored on several physical devices, including in RAM and on hard-disks, as determined by the operating system.
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Rational
Of a number, capable of being expressed as the ratio of two integers.
¾ is a rational number, but √2 is an irrational number.
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Rational
Of an algebraic expression, capable of being expressed as the ratio of two polynomials.
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Logical
According to the rules of logic; as, a logical argument or inference; the reasoning is logical; a logical argument; a logical impossibility.
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Rational
(chemistry) Expressing the type, structure, relations, and reactions of a compound; graphic; said of formulae.
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Logical
Skilled in logic; versed in the art of thinking and reasoning; as, he is a logical thinker.
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Rational
(physics) Expressing a physical object.
A rational table is physical, a written table is neither.
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Logical
Capable of or reflecting the capability for correct and valid reasoning;
A logical mind
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Rational
(mathematics) A rational number: a number that can be expressed as the quotient of two integers.
The quotient of two rationals is again a rational.
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Logical
Marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts;
A logical argument
The orderly presentation
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Rational
Relating to the reason; not physical; mental.
Moral philosophy was his chiefest end; for the rational, the natural, and mathematics . . . were but simple pastimes in comparison of the other.
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Logical
Based on known statements or events or conditions;
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year
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Rational
Having reason, or the faculty of reasoning; endowed with reason or understanding; reasoning.
It is our glory and happiness to have a rational nature.
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Logical
Capable of thinking and expressing yourself in a clear and consistent manner;
A lucid thinker
She was more coherent than she had been just after the accident
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Rational
Agreeable to reason; not absurd, preposterous, extravagant, foolish, fanciful, or the like; wise; judicious; as, rational conduct; a rational man.
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Rational
Expressing the type, structure, relations, and reactions of a compound; graphic; - said of formulæ. See under Formula.
What higher in her society thou find'stAttractive, human, rational, love still.
A law may be reasonable in itself, although a man does not allow it, or does not know the reason of the lawgivers.
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Rational
Consistent with or based on or using reason;
Rational behavior
A process of rational inference
Rational thought
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Rational
Of or associated with or requiring the use of the mind;
Intellectual problems
The triumph of the rational over the animal side of man
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Rational
Capable of being expressed as a quotient of integers;
Rational numbers
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Rational
Having its source in or being guided by the intellect (distinguished from experience or emotion);
A rational analysis
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Rational
Characterized by practical and sensible thinking.
His approach to problem-solving is always rational.
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Rational
Pertaining to judgments made by reasoning.
It’s rational to seek advice before making big decisions.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is rational thinking always logical?
Rational thinking is generally logical, but it also includes practicality and emotional intelligence, which might not strictly adhere to formal logic.
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Feb 28, 2024
How does logical thinking differ in mathematics compared to daily life?
In mathematics, logical thinking follows strict rules and principles, while in daily life, it's often blended with practical considerations.
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Feb 28, 2024
Can someone be rational but not logical?
Not typically, as rationality usually includes logic, but it also involves practical and emotional considerations.
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Feb 28, 2024
How do logical and rational thinking contribute to problem-solving?
Logical thinking helps in structuring the problem-solving process, while rational thinking ensures practical and applicable solutions.
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Feb 28, 2024
Is logic always based on facts?
Logical reasoning typically starts with factual or assumed premises, but its soundness depends on how these premises are used.
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Feb 28, 2024
Can a decision be logical but not rational?
Yes, if a decision strictly follows logical principles but ignores practical considerations, it can be logical but not rational.
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Feb 28, 2024
Can emotions be part of rational thinking?
Yes, rational thinking often considers emotional intelligence and subjective experiences, unlike strictly logical thinking.
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Feb 28, 2024
Can rationality vary from person to person?
Yes, since rationality includes subjective elements like personal values and experiences, it can vary.
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Feb 28, 2024
What does it mean to think logically?
Thinking logically means using clear, structured reasoning, often based on established principles or facts.
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Feb 28, 2024
How do emotions impact rational decision-making?
Emotions can provide valuable insights and motivations in rational decision-making, but they should be balanced with logic.
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Feb 28, 2024
Can logic be subjective?
The application of logic can be influenced by subjective interpretations, but the principles of logic are objective.
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Feb 28, 2024
Why is logical thinking important in science?
Logical thinking ensures consistency, accuracy, and objectivity in scientific methods and conclusions.
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Feb 28, 2024
Is it possible to train oneself to be more logical or rational?
Yes, through practice, education, and awareness, one can improve their logical and rational thinking skills.
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Feb 28, 2024
How does culture influence rational thinking?
Cultural values and norms can shape what is considered rational in different contexts.
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Is logical thinking devoid of creativity?
Not necessarily. While logical thinking is structured, it can also foster creativity within its framework.
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Feb 28, 2024
Are logical and rational thinking skills innate or learned?
While some people may have a natural inclination, these skills are largely developed through learning and experience.
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Can a logical argument be flawed?
Yes, if the premises are incorrect or the reasoning is fallacious, a logical argument can be flawed.
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Does rational thinking always lead to the best decision?
Not always, as it depends on the accuracy of the information and the individual's ability to balance logic, practicality, and emotion.
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Can technology enhance logical and rational thinking?
Yes, technology, especially in the form of analytical tools, can aid in logical and rational analysis and decision-making.
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Feb 28, 2024
How do biases affect rational thinking?
Biases can lead to irrational decisions by skewing the interpretation of information and overshadowing logical reasoning.
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Feb 28, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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