Lawmaker introduces resolution extolling reason

A new bill unveiled in the House calls for public recognition of the importance of reason.

Rep. Mike Honda (D-Calif.) has introduced a resolution urging support for designating May 5 as a “National Day of Reason” to recognize the value of reason in daily life.

“[M]ost citizens of the United States purport to value reason and its application,” the resolution states.

{mosads}It goes on to add that “it is the duty and responsibility of every citizen to promote the development and application of reason,” and “the application of reason has proven to offer hope for human survival upon Earth, improving conditions within the universe, and cultivating intelligent, moral, and ethical interactions among people and their environments.”

The resolution lauding the value of reason comes after a House Republican introduced a widely mocked measure last month calling for magic to be considered a “rare and valuable art form and national treasure.”

Honda introduced the measure in coordination with the American Humanist Association, which is leading an initiative for a National Day of Reason.

The group argues that a National Day of Reason should exist to offer a secular alternative to the National Day of Prayer, which Congress established in 1952 to be held on the first Thursday of May.

“While some may seek personal guidance from their god or gods, we encourage our elected leaders to use reason, compassion, and egalitarianism as their guides in determining what’s best for America,” Roy Speckhardt, executive director of the American Humanist Association, said in a statement.

Honda, who faces a tough reelection this year, said the concept of reason has been critical for the success of the technology sector region that he represents in the House.

“The evolution of my Silicon Valley district into the world’s center of innovation came about through the use of the scientific method and the application of reason,” Honda said in a statement.

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) is currently the measure’s only cosponsor. 

As with other symbolic resolutions that members of Congress frequently introduce, Honda’s measure is unlikely to get time for consideration on the House floor.