empiricism
UK[ɪmˈpɪrɪsɪzəm]US[ɛmˈpɪrəˌsɪzəm]
n
The theory that all knowledge is derived from sense-experience.
n
The practice of relying on observation and experiment rather than theory.
Morpheme Breakdown
empiric
ism
empiric
based on experience
ism
doctrine or system
Etymology
The term 'empiricism' originates from the Greek word 'empeiria', meaning "experience," which itself is derived from 'empeiros' ("experienced in"). This root passed into Late Latin as 'empiricus', initially describing a practitioner of medicine who relied on practical experience rather than theoretical knowledge. The suffix '-ism', denoting a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy, was appended in the early modern period. Thus, the word's literal logic is "the doctrine of experience," perfectly encapsulating its philosophical meaning that knowledge comes primarily from sensory observation and practical experiment, in contrast to rationalist theories of innate ideas.
Analysis
Structure: empiric (based on experience) + ism (doctrine or system)
- empiric: From Latin 'empiricus', from Greek 'empeirikos' (experienced), from 'empeiria' (experience).
- ism: A suffix forming nouns of action, state, condition, or doctrine, from Greek '-ismos'.
Examples
The scientist's approach was grounded in strict empiricism, valuing data from controlled experiments above all.
Early modern philosophy is often characterized by the debate between rationalism and empiricism.
His empiricism led him to be skeptical of claims that could not be tested through observation.