RATIONALISM AND REASON
[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.]
SIR,—I hope this letter in reply to the Dean of St. Paul's query " What is Rationalism ? " is not too late for publication. Speaking for myself, as a member for many years past of the Rationalist Press Association, I can say that the term " Rationalism" in that connexion does not represent a new ready-Made system either of ethics or philosophy. Na such agreement could be claimed for it, not even immunity
from possible irrationalism. One of its main functions undoubtedly is to turn the light of reason upon beliefs asso- ciated with Christianity which, in accordance with modern thought, rank merely as legends in the case of other religions. Rationalism is fully cognisant of the psychology of religious belief and of its many varieties, but it definitely rejects the claim still made, either tacitly or avowedly, to found such belief on myth; miracle or the like, whether inside or outside the pages of the Bible. It realises the grave danger of placing progress, mental or moral, on the shifting sands of superstition, and would substitute for that the firmer ground of human ideals, and efforts to bring about their
realisation.—I am, Sir, yours faithfully, MAUD SIMON.
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