Abstract

The central thesis of this book, which is defended well, is that only a normative theory of rationality can deal adequately with the subject of the nature of rationality. According to the author, "Good reasons for believing, for evaluating, and for acting go together to make up a seamless and indivisible whole". In light of his central thesis and the scope of this book, which includes an investigation of the mechanics, justification, and rewards of reason, Rescher argues that social scientists who try to present a theory of rationality and at the same time avoid the rationality of normative judgments "[are] condemned from the very outset to an inappropriate view of the rational enterprise".