Rationalism is a philosophical belief that emphasizes reason as the primary source of knowledge. Rationalists argue that certain truths can be discovered through logical thinking and intellectual deduction, rather than relying solely on sensory experience. This approach suggests that our minds have innate ideas that help us understand the world, a concept often associated with philosophers like René Descartes. In contrast to empiricism, which values observation and experience, rationalism posits that some knowledge is inherent and can be accessed through reasoning. This perspective has influenced various fields, including mathematics and science, where logical frameworks are essential for understanding complex concepts.