Basic TrainingBible MinistriesGene CunninghamBasic Training Bible Ministries KBKnowledge Base

What is empiricism?

Empiricism is reliance on sensory perception for the discovery of truth. It serves as the basis of scientific investigation, characterized by the belief that something must be seen or touched to be believed.

This method is flawed because many things cannot be measured, seen, or accounted for. Consequently, empiricism is of no use in man's attempt to find or know God.

God planned for man to find Him through faith alone, rather than through human intellect or sensory perception (1 Cor. 1). Only faith can please Him (Heb. 11:6).

Also asked: What is reliance on sense experiences for learning truth?
Also asked, more loosely
What are the limitations of scientific research? · How can one find God through faith?

Source: The Basics The Basics -- Subject Index entry 'Empiricism' (printed pp. 47) · Read this lesson in the book →

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