This bill supports designating May 4, 2025, as "National Day of Reason" to highlight reason's importance in society and governance.
Jamie Raskin
Representative
MD-8
This bill supports the designation of May 4, 2025, as the National Day of Reason to recognize the importance of reason in addressing societal challenges, defending democratic principles, and advancing human rights. It highlights the role of reason and critical thinking in countering disinformation, promoting civil liberties, and upholding the separation of church and state. The bill also recognizes the importance of the scientific method and free inquiry in improving human welfare.
Resolution Proposes May 4, 2025 as 'National Day of Reason' to Champion Critical Thinking
This resolution throws its support behind designating May 4, 2025, as a "National Day of Reason." It's essentially a formal nod recognizing the value of critical thinking, the scientific method, and logical inquiry in tackling societal challenges and generally making things better for everyone. The core idea is to highlight reason as a key tool for navigating the modern world.
Why Reason Gets Its Own Day
The resolution connects the dots between using reason and strengthening core aspects of civic life. It specifically mentions reason's role in upholding the rule of law, maintaining the separation of church and state, protecting democratic institutions, and promoting justice and peace. The text also points to reason as a vital defense against disinformation and authoritarianism, and as necessary for advancing civil liberties, human rights, and even addressing big issues like climate change. It gives a nod to the nation's Founders, noting their emphasis on reason, and references constitutional safeguards like freedom of thought and speech, the Establishment Clause (preventing government establishment of religion), and the Free Exercise Clause (protecting individuals' right to practice their religion).