From Rationalism to Relationalism: As in the Transformation of a Line into a Sphere

Abstract

Rationalism possesses enormous practical usefulness, yet it needs revision because it carries with it the seeds of being incorrect anthropologically, epistemologically, philosophically, geometrically, and theologically. Hence, it tends to fall prey to relativism. And relativism easily slides into vulgar absolutism, which states that “everything is relative to man.”

To climb out of this abyss, we must create new modes of thought and expression, which can be examined under the rubric of Relationalism.

Relationalism is an attempt to cure the shortcomings of Rationalism. In so doing, Relationalism makes a fuller use of the positive values of Rationalism. Relationalism maintains that linear thinking must be expanded into spherical thinking.

Keywords: rationalism, Relationalism, systems analysis

JEL Classification: B40, B50, F40