Description
Rationalism is the view that reason itself provides the foundation of knowledge. In other words, according to the rationalist, the mind is wired or implanted with certain a priori capacities/ideas, and it is in virtue of these a priori capacities/ideas that we can explain the source and foundation of knowledge. As to which ideas/capacities are the important ones when it comes to giving a robust account of knowledge, this is a matter of considerable dispute. However, regardless of any potential lack of historical convergence on which aspects of our thinking are innate, it is important to note that the rationalistic tradition has a long, resilient history that extends to the modern day. Indeed contemporary studies on childhood development are often cited in support of rationalism.
While opposite in its conclusion to rationalism, empiricism has a likewise long and storied history with deep anchor points in the history of Western thought and contemporary intellectual life. It also has its fair share of passionate adherents and critics. According to empiricism, the foundations of knowledge can only be captured through an appeal to particular experiences over reason itself. Thus, whereas the metaphor of a mind that is wired or implanted with certain capacities/ideas was used to illustrate rationalism, empiricism is perhaps best thought of in terms of a blank slate or an empty vessel. In this way, empiricism denies that there are innate or a priori ideas, and is therefore in direct opposition to rationalism.
In terms of deciding which theory of knowledge is the stronger one, this is no small challenge. Each view has distinct advantages and disadvantages
Description:
You will write a short, succinct essay. Choose ONE of the above two theories of knowledge covered this week (i.e., empiricism or rationalism) and ONE particular philosopher’s account of this same theory (e.g., Descartes’ rationalism, Locke’s empiricism) and explain why it is the strongest, most plausible theory of knowledge.
This essay should be at 5 paragraphs, and organized as follows:
Paragraph One: Your introduction, in which you state your thesis.
Paragraphs Two and Three: Decide which two pieces of evidence offer the best support for your thesis. Then write two paragraphs, with each paragraph covering first one, then the second point of evidence in support of your epistemology.
Paragraph Four: Devote a paragraph to the opposing theory. Briefly explain its strengths, and then make clear why in spite of its strengths, it’s not as persuasive as your chosen theory.
Paragraph Five: Your conclusion, in which you re-state your thesis and the two primary reasons supporting your thesis.
This essay should be 5 paragraphs in total.
