Final answer:
The rules discoverable by reason that govern the universe are known as the laws of nature, which are consistent and universally applicable. These laws are essential for understanding phenomena in astronomy and other sciences. They are discovered through observation and are considered intrinsic to the universe, not alterable by humans.
Step-by-step explanation:
These rules discoverable by reason that govern the universe around us are known as the laws of nature. One of the most profound realizations in physics is that these universal laws apply consistently throughout the cosmos. The discovery of natural laws is a central aspect of scientific inquiry, involving observation and reasoning. It is through these laws that we can comprehend the motion of distant stars and the behavior of objects right here on Earth. Whether it be in the field of astronomy or understanding the arc of a baseball, these laws provide a consistent framework that allows for predictions and understanding across various disciplines and locations.
Indeed, without such universal laws, advancements in many fields, particularly astronomy, would be thwarted. A consistent set of laws allows scientists to interpret phenomena in distant parts of the universe without the need to physically explore these regions. Much like uniform legal standards within a country facilitate trade and mutual understanding, consistent natural laws allow us to apply knowledge universally.
In the realm of morality, philosophers like Kant have argued that moral laws, much like physical laws, can be discerned through reason. This notion suggests that human beings are morally obliged to use their reasoning abilities to determine and adhere to these moral laws. However, in the context of physics, it is observation and experiment that predominantly guide our understanding of the natural laws governing the universe.