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empiricism
This term describes a commitment to the tangible and the observable. It carries a connotation of objectivity and rigor, positioning sensory evidence as the only reliable source of truth. In academic and scientific contexts, it is often contrasted with rationalism, which emphasizes the role of reason and innate logic. As an uncountable noun, it refers to a philosophical system or a general methodology. It does not have a plural form and cannot be counted as individual units; instead, it is treated as a singular mass concept.
Meanings
The philosophical theory that all knowledge is derived from sense-experience and evidence gathered through observation rather than from innate ideas or intuition.
"The scientist's approach was rooted in strict empiricism, relying solely on observable data to form a conclusion."
The practice of relying on experience and observation over theoretical or logical deduction in a specific field of study or professional practice.
"Medical empiricism often involves treating a patient based on what has worked for similar cases in the past, even if the exact biological mechanism is not yet understood."