What is the difference between rationalism and empiricism?

Rationalism claims, that the information we gain is independent from our external experience (i.e. the senses). they use deduction as a scientific method. Deduction means, that we form a complex ideas by assembling several small ideas, which are truthful. These small ideas are called premises. The deductive reasoning works like this: premise A : all men are mortalpremise B: John is a manconclusion: John is mortal. this is a very simple example of the way deduction works.Empiricism on the other hand, relies on information gained by experience, and that experience is the most reliable source of information. They use intuition as a scientific method. Unlike deduction, which is focused of general claims, intuition works from small specific facts, towards large general theories.

Answered by Zuzana G. Philosophy tutor

2114 Views

See similar Philosophy A Level tutors

Related Philosophy A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how one of Gettier's original counter examples attacks the tripartite view of knowledge


Is rule utilitarianism a better form of ethical decision making than act utilitarianism?


'Utilitarianism is a good way to make moral decisions.' Discuss.


Explain Hume’s Argument Against Miracles


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences