ThePhilosophyCenter: Epistemology: Empiricism #1

 Hello!

In the 16,17, and 18th century, there were two major schools of thought in philosophy that had different answers that tried to answer the question, "What is the most trustable and optimal way to learn or gain knowledge?"

These two major groups were the Empiricists and Rationalists. Empiricists believed our mind at birth is a tabula rasa, a blank canvas, with no prior knowledge. It believes we must rely on our senses to optimally learn. Rationalists believed we had some prior knowledge at birth and we should use our own minds.

Many philosophers were at each side, so we will do a series. This week and next week and the week after is Empiricism #1,#2, and #3 respectively. Today we will talk about Francis Bacon, one of the first major "British" empiricst philosophers. 

Francis Bacon lived in a time where many scientists worked, which challenged the dominant Christian religion in Europe. Bacon lived in a time called the "Scientific Revolution" and an increasingly large amount of people began doubting the used-to-be unchallenged religion.

Bacon claimed he was a believer of Christian teachings but also believed in a total separation between religion and the sciences. This was because he wanted to acquire knowledge quicker. Bacon believed knowledge was power and emphasized its importance. However, this put aside religion which would eventually escalate further.

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