What is a posteriori Knowledge in Philosophy
A posteriori knowledge is a fundamental concept in philosophy that refers to knowledge acquired through empirical experience or observation of the world. Unlike a priori knowledge, which is based on reason and logic, a posteriori knowledge depends on interaction with the real world to be obtained. In this glossary, we will explore in detail the meaning and importance of a posteriori knowledge in philosophy.
Definition of a posteriori Knowledge
A posteriori knowledge, also known as empirical knowledge, is knowledge that is acquired through sensory experience and observation of the world around us. It is based on concrete evidence and observable facts, and is obtained through the senses, perception and experimentation. Unlike a priori knowledge, which is independent of experience, a posteriori knowledge is dependent on experience to be acquired.
Examples of Posterior Knowledge
To better understand the concept of a posteriori knowledge, it is useful to look at some practical examples. A classic example is the knowledge that water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level. This information is acquired through the experience of heating water and observing that it boils at that specific temperature.
Another example is the knowledge that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. This information is acquired through daily observation of the sun's movement along the horizon. It is something that we can verify empirically and that becomes part of our knowledge a posteriori.
Relationship between a posteriori knowledge and a priori knowledge
A posteriori knowledge and a priori knowledge are two types of knowledge that play different roles in philosophy. While a posteriori knowledge is based on experience and observation of the world, a priori knowledge is independent of experience and is based on reason and logic.
An example of a priori knowledge is mathematical knowledge. For example, we know that 2 + 2 = 4 without needing to perform experiments or observe the world. This knowledge is considered a priori because it is based on reason and logic rather than empirical experience.
The importance of a posteriori Knowledge in Philosophy
A posteriori knowledge plays a crucial role in philosophy, as it is through it that we acquire much of our knowledge about the world. Through observation and experience, we can learn about natural phenomena, the laws of physics, social relationships, and many other aspects of reality.
Furthermore, a posteriori knowledge is essential for the construction of scientific theories. Science relies on observation and experimentation to formulate hypotheses and test them empirically. Without a posteriori knowledge, we would not be able to advance scientific knowledge and understand the world around us.
Criticisms of Knowledge a posteriori
Despite the importance of a posteriori knowledge, it has also been criticized in philosophy. One of the most common criticisms is that a posteriori knowledge is limited and fallible. Because it depends on experience, it is subject to errors in perception, illusions and misinterpretations of observed data.
Another criticism is that a posteriori knowledge is contingent, that is, it depends on the particular circumstances in which it is acquired. For example, the knowledge that water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level may not be valid at other altitudes or atmospheric pressures.
Conclusion
In short, a posteriori knowledge is knowledge acquired through experience and observation of the world. It is based on concrete evidence and observable facts, and plays a fundamental role in philosophy and the construction of scientific knowledge. Despite its limitations and criticisms, a posteriori knowledge allows us to understand and interact with the world around us in a meaningful way.
