Empiricism Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is empiricism?
The philosophy that knowledge is derived from experience and observation
It emphasizes experimentation, sensory experience, and evidence-based reasoning over authority and tradition.
Which centuries mark the Scientific Revolution?
16th–18th centuries
This period was characterized by significant advancements in scientific thought and methodology.
Who developed inductive reasoning?
Francis Bacon
He advocated for systematic observation and experimentation to derive general principles.
What was Galileo Galilei’s contribution to empirical science?
He blended observation, mathematical analysis, and controlled experimentation
His use of instruments like the telescope revolutionized astronomy.
How did Isaac Newton’s approach differ from that of Galileo and Bacon?
He combined empirical observation with rationalism
This led to the creation of universal laws based on both experimental data and mathematical deduction.
What key aspect characterized Galileo’s methodology?
Use of instruments to extend human observation
His telescope observations provided empirical evidence for the heliocentric model.
What did Galileo discover about celestial bodies?
He discovered Jupiter’s moons
This proved that celestial bodies could orbit something other than Earth.
What experimental approach did Galileo take regarding motion?
He conducted experiments using inclined planes to show that acceleration due to gravity is constant
This contradicted Aristotle’s claims about falling objects.
What is the significance of mathematics according to Galileo?
Nature is governed by mathematical laws
He emphasized that these laws are more than just empirical descriptions.
What were the different methods used by Galileo and Bacon?
Galileo: Experimental and mathematical; Bacon: Systematic observation and inductive reasoning
This highlights their distinct approaches to scientific inquiry.
What was Bacon’s famous work?
Novum Organum
This work introduced inductive reasoning as a scientific method.
What did Newton derive from Galileo’s empirical observations?
Universal laws through mathematical deduction
This synthesis created a new scientific paradigm.
What did Galileo demonstrate about falling objects?
All objects fall at the same acceleration
This was a significant finding in the study of motion.
What are the three interpretations of empiricism?
- Galilean empiricism: Rooted in direct experimentation and mathematical laws
- Baconian empiricism: Focused on systematic data collection and pattern recognition
- Newtonian empiricism: Combined empirical data with theoretical deduction
Each interpretation reflects a different emphasis in the scientific method.
Who is considered the true experimentalist among Galileo, Bacon, and Newton?
Galileo
He is recognized for his hands-on experimentation and empirical approach.
True or False: Bacon put empiricism into practice through hands-on experimentation.
False
Bacon laid theoretical foundations, while Galileo implemented empirical methods.
What impact did empiricism have on modern science?
It led to the development of the scientific method and advancements in technology
Evidence-based disciplines such as physics, medicine, and engineering emerged as a result.
