According to Empiricism, where does all knowledge originate?

Empiricism posits that all knowledge originates from experience and observation. This philosophical stance emphasizes the role of sensory experience in the formation of ideas, as opposed to relying on innate ideas, philosophical reasoning, or cultural traditions. Empiricists argue that knowledge is gained through direct interaction with the world and is built up through experiential learning, which is foundational in various fields, including the social sciences.

This approach challenges other views that prioritize rationalism, which asserts that knowledge can be derived through reason and logic alone, or the belief in innate ideas, where certain concepts are understood to be inherent to human cognition. Empiricism emphasizes that understanding and knowledge come from our interactions with the environment, leading to scientifically validated information that is observable and measurable. This makes empirical methods critical in therapeutic settings where evidence-based practices are favored for their effectiveness in treatment outcomes.