The Problem of the Relationship between Intuition and Reason in Western and Eastern Philosophical Systems

Abstract

The present study aims to identify the correlation between intuition and reason as cognitive foundations of philosophical thinking across different cultural traditions. The analysis relies on the systematic categorisation of intuition, identification of their functions within philosophical cognition, and comparison of epistemological approaches across cultural contexts. Intuition and reason form fundamental supports of philosophical thinking, though—it has been established—their status and correlation considerably vary by tradition. In several systems, intuition was construed as autonomous knowledge with immediate connection to truth, while reason performed formalisation and justification, sometimes recognised as derivative of intuitive apprehension. Differences are identified between dualistic and non-dualistic models of cognition and in ethical-political foundations associated with either external rational order or inner moral choice. The practical significance lies in forming a theoretical basis for cross-cultural philosophical dialogue and acknowledging the plurality of paths to knowledge.