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Plural
empiricisms
1
(in philosophy) the doctrine that knowledge is derived from sensory experience rather than theory or intuition
- John Locke is a central figure in philosophical empiricism.
- Empiricism emphasizes observation over speculation.
- The theory reflects empiricism in its insistence on evidence from experience.
- Philosophical empiricism challenged purely rationalist approaches.
- She studied empiricism to understand the roots of modern science.
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2
the application of methods that are based on observation and experiment in any art, science, or field of study
- Modern chemistry relies heavily on empiricism in experiments.
- The artist's method showed empiricism in observing natural light.
- Empiricism is fundamental to the scientific method.
- Archaeology uses empiricism to reconstruct past societies from artifacts.
- His approach to engineering reflected empiricism through repeated testing.
3
medical practice or advice based on observation and experience, without reference to scientific or theoretical knowledge
- Empiricism dominated medicine before the advent of modern research.
- The healer's empiricism was effective but not scientifically explained.
- The treatment reflected empiricism, based on trial-and-error experience.
- Historically, empiricism was common in folk remedies.
- Physicians practiced empiricism when formal medical training was unavailable.
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