British Empiricism (Noun)
Meaning
The predominant philosophical tradition in Great Britain since the 17th century.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- British empiricism rejects the idea of innate knowledge and instead emphasizes the role of sensory experience in shaping our understanding of the world.
- The dominance of British empiricism throughout the 18th century led to significant advancements in the fields of science, philosophy, and psychology.
- John Locke, often considered the father of British empiricism, argued that our knowledge comes from experience and sensory perception rather than from innate ideas or reason.
- David Hume's philosophical works built upon the principles of British empiricism, but also critiqued some of its core ideas and limitations.
- The influence of British empiricism on modern Western philosophy remains profound, shaping our understanding of the relationship between knowledge, perception, and reality.