Science Forums 2

[Rade]

Rational discussion of "r" at time "x" may differ from rational discussion of "r" at time "y" because the facts of reality of "r" may have changed during the interval of time "t" intermediate between moments "x" and "y".

For there to be a rational discussion (that is, you want the discussion to be in accordance with the facts of reality), there is only one way--you must use reason. "Reason is the only objective means of communication and of understanding among men; when men deal with one another by means of reason, reality is their objective standard and frame of reference...." (Ayn Rand). The common denominator is that "reason" can be used at both moments "x" and "y" thus allowing for the possibility of rational discussion of "r" at all moments of time. But rationality it is an act of volition, irrational discussion of "r" also possible at any moment.

Thus, defining the nature of rational discussion is the process of using reason to communicate the facts of reality of "r" at different moments of time.