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
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Basis of Thought
Strict adherence to rules of formal logic
Practicality and efficiency in decision-making
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Scope
Often narrow, focusing on factual accuracy and consistency
Broad, including practical considerations and subjective elements
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Application
Predominant in sciences and mathematics
Widespread in everyday life and practical affairs
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Decision Making
Based strictly on factual and logical consistency
Balances logic with practicality and emotional intelligence
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Emotion and Bias
Minimized or excluded
Considered as part of the reasoning process
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Logical and Rational Definitions
Logical
Characterized by clear, sound reasoning.
The detective’s logical approach solved the mystery.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Having the ability to reason soundly.
A rational person wouldn't make such a risky investment.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Pertaining to an expected or natural outcome or sequence.
It’s logical to wear a coat when it's cold outside.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Based on clear, sensible reasoning.
Her decision to save money was a rational choice.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Based on facts and a clear sequence of reasoning.
Her argument was logical and convincing.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Rational
Involving logical and sensible judgment.
Choosing the most efficient route was a rational decision.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Pertaining to clear, methodical reasoning.
Solving a complex math problem requires logical thinking.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Consistent with the rules of formal logic.
His conclusion was logical, given the premises.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Consistent with or based on reason or good judgment; logical or sensible
Rational decisions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Of, relating to, in accordance with, or of the nature of logic
Logical disputation.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Of sound mind; sane
Wondered if the eccentric neighbor was not completely rational.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Based on earlier or otherwise known statements, events, or conditions; reasonable
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
(Mathematics) Capable of being expressed as a quotient of integers.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Reasoning or capable of reasoning in a clear and consistent manner
A very logical person.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Logically sound; not self-contradictory or otherwise absurd.
His statements were quite rational.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
(not comparable) Of or pertaining to logic.
It's not logical, it's God!
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
(of a person or personal characteristics) Healthy or balanced intellectually; exhibiting reasonableness.
Rational conduct
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Of an algebraic expression, capable of being expressed as the ratio of two polynomials.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
According to the rules of logic; as, a logical argument or inference; the reasoning is logical; a logical argument; a logical impossibility.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
(chemistry) Expressing the type, structure, relations, and reactions of a compound; graphic; said of formulae.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Skilled in logic; versed in the art of thinking and reasoning; as, he is a logical thinker.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
(physics) Expressing a physical object.
A rational table is physical, a written table is neither.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Capable of or reflecting the capability for correct and valid reasoning;
A logical mind
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts;
A logical argument
The orderly presentation
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Logical
Based on known statements or events or conditions;
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Agreeable to reason; not absurd, preposterous, extravagant, foolish, fanciful, or the like; wise; judicious; as, rational conduct; a rational man.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Consistent with or based on or using reason;
Rational behavior
A process of rational inference
Rational thought
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Capable of being expressed as a quotient of integers;
Rational numbers
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Having its source in or being guided by the intellect (distinguished from experience or emotion);
A rational analysis
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Characterized by practical and sensible thinking.
His approach to problem-solving is always rational.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
Rational
Pertaining to judgments made by reasoning.
It’s rational to seek advice before making big decisions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 11, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Can emotions be part of rational thinking?
Yes, rational thinking often considers emotional intelligence and subjective experiences, unlike strictly logical thinking.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Can rationality vary from person to person?
Yes, since rationality includes subjective elements like personal values and experiences, it can vary.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
What does it mean to think logically?
Thinking logically means using clear, structured reasoning, often based on established principles or facts.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Can logic be subjective?
The application of logic can be influenced by subjective interpretations, but the principles of logic are objective.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Why is logical thinking important in science?
Logical thinking ensures consistency, accuracy, and objectivity in scientific methods and conclusions.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
How does culture influence rational thinking?
Cultural values and norms can shape what is considered rational in different contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Is logical thinking devoid of creativity?
Not necessarily. While logical thinking is structured, it can also foster creativity within its framework.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Can a logical argument be flawed?
Yes, if the premises are incorrect or the reasoning is fallacious, a logical argument can be flawed.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
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.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Hifza Nasir
Dua Fatima
