EMPIRICISM

GALANG, Khristine Mae P.
Empiricism
The term empiricism has a dual etymology. It comes from the Ancient Greek word
εμπειρισμός, the Latin translation of which is experientia, from which we derive the word
experience. It also derives from a more specific classical Greek and Roman usage
of empiric, referring to a physician whose skill derives from practical experience as opposed to
instruction in theory.
The category of experience may include all contents of consciousness or it may be

restricted to the data of the senses only.
Empiricism contrasts with rationalist philosophical positions that emphasize the role
of innate ideas, or a priori knowledge. Kant and others sought to integrate empiricism with
rationalism, conceiving that knowledge is constituted by the collation of preexisting concepts
within the mind and information gained through the senses.
In the philosophy of science, empiricism refers to an emphasis on those aspects of

scientific knowledge that are closely related to experience, especially as formed through
deliberate experimental arrangements. It is generally taken as a fundamental requirement of the
scientific method that all hypotheses and theories must be tested against observations of the
natural world, rather than relying on intuition or revelation. Hence, science is considered to
be methodologically empirical in nature.
- So-called common sense might appear to be inarticulately empiricist
John Locke the founder of British Empiricism
The doctrine of empiricism was first explicitly

formulated by British philosopher John Locke in the 17th
century. Locke argued that the mind is a tabula
rasa ("clean slate" or "blank tablet") on which
experiences leave their marks. Such empiricism denies that humans have innate ideas or that
anything is knowable without reference to experience.
Responding to the "continental rationalism" most prominently defended by René

Descartes, John Locke (1632-1704), writing in the late 17th century in his An Essay Concerning
Human Understanding (1689), proposed a new and ultimately very influential view wherein
the only knowledge humans can have is a posteriori, i.e., based upon experience. Locke is
famously attributed with saying that the human mind is a tabula rasa, a "blank tablet," in
Locke's words "white paper," on which is written the experiences derived from sense
impressions as a person's life proceeds. There are two sources of our ideas: sensation and
reflection. In both cases, a distinction is made between simple and complex ideas. The former are
unanalyzable, and are broken down into primary and secondary qualities. Complex ideas are
those which combine simple ones and are divided into substances, modes and relations.
According to Locke, our knowledge of things is a perception of ideas that are in accordance or
discordance with each other, which is very different from the quest for certainty of Descartes.
Concepts of Empiricism
a posteriori (from the latter or based upon experience) – can be applied only on the
basis of experience.
Examples:
a.
Before buying a product from e-commerce websites, it is
common practice that we look for customer reviews about the
products. Here, the act of relying on testimonials or the experience
of the people who bought the product before us can help give an
incentive to decide between buying.
b. Conducting a science experiment to verify a hypothesis.
a priori (from the former) – can be applied independently of experience.
Examples:
a. It’s freezing outside; you must be cold.
b. Knowing that 2 + 2 equals 4 without needing empirical evidence.
Empiricism in the Context of Values
Empiricism, in the context of values, refers to the idea that knowledge and understanding
of values are derived from direct sensory experiences or observable evidence. It emphasizes the
importance of tangible, observable data in forming one's moral or ethical principles, as opposed
to relying solely on abstract reasoning or speculative theories.
Compassion
Instead of relying solely on abstract ideas about empathy, an empiricist might value
compassion based on tangible experiences of understanding others' suffering through personal
encounters or witnessing real-life instances of empathy.
Honesty
Rather than abstract principles about truthfulness, an

empiricist approach to honesty may involve valuing it because of
observable benefits in relationships and societal trust, supported
by evidence of the positive outcomes of truthful communication.
Politeness
An empiricist might value politeness because they have

observed that courteous communication tends to foster better understanding, cooperation, and a
more positive social atmosphere.
Respect
Instead of abstract principles, an empiricist could value respect

based on the observable benefits of treating others with dignity, leading to
improved relationships, cooperation, and a more harmonious
community.
Empiricism in the classroom setting
In a classroom setting, an empirical approach involves emphasizing practical experiences,

observations, and tangible evidence to enhance learning.
Hands-on Learning
Incorporating experiments or interactive activities to allow students to directly observe

and experience concepts, fostering a deeper understanding compared to abstract theoretical
discussions.
Real-World Applications
Connecting classroom topics to real-life examples and scenarios, helping students see the
practical relevance of what they are learning and how it applies in everyday situations.
Experiential Learning
Encouraging students to engage in field trips, case studies, or projects that provide direct
experiences, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical context.

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GALANG, Khristine Mae P.

The category of experience may include all contents of consciousness or it may be

In the philosophy of science, empiricism refers to an emphasis on those aspects of

- So-called common sense might appear to be inarticulately empiricist

John Locke the founder of British Empiricism

The doctrine of empiricism was first explicitly

Responding to the "continental rationalism" most prominently defended by René

a priori (from the former) – can be applied independently of experience.

a. It’s freezing outside; you must be cold.

b. Knowing that 2 + 2 equals 4 without needing empirical evidence.

Empiricism in the Context of Values

Rather than abstract principles about truthfulness, an

An empiricist might value politeness because they have

Instead of abstract principles, an empiricist could value respect

Empiricism in the classroom setting

In a classroom setting, an empirical approach involves emphasizing practical experiences,

Incorporating experiments or interactive activities to allow students to directly observe

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