Empiricism

Definition

The philosophical position that knowledge derives primarily from sensory experience and observation rather than innate ideas or pure reason. Empiricists emphasize evidence and experimentation over speculation.

Example Usage

The scientist's commitment to empiricism meant all hypotheses had to be tested through controlled experiments.

Origin

From Greek 'empeiria' (experience), via Latin 'empiricus'; formalized as a philosophical school by Locke, Hume, and others in the 17th–18th centuries.

Fun Fact

Empiricism vs. rationalism was one of the foundational debates of modern philosophy, shaping how science and knowledge itself developed.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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