[OWK]

However, how does one define 'reason' and 'rational' in a strictly materialist framework?

That which is rational, is that which is logically consistent with reality. Are men always rational? No, of course not. Does that mean that we should abandon rationality? Hell no.

It seems that you are implicitly assuming at least some sort of metaphysics (in a nontheistic sense) in order to use words like 'rights' and 'reason'.

Of course I am.

As a rational human being, I have no alternative.

[malakhi]

It seems that you are implicitly assuming at least some sort of metaphysics (in a nontheistic sense) in order to use words like 'rights' and 'reason'.

Of course I am. As a rational human being, I have no alternative.

LOL! I'm somewhat surprised you concede this, but ok. Be careful, though. Some might call this metaphysics 'God'.