Empiricism vs. Nativism - Does Innate Knowledge Exist?

Abstract: A 9 page paper discussing whether knowledge is innate, as held by Plato, Descartes and Kant, or whether empiricists such as John Locke are more correct in their views of the origin of knowledge. The old arguments of the classic philosophers are more difficult to support in today's society and technological innovation, and it is language that is most widely discussed as having innate connections. Chomsky fell from favor in the 1980s, but linguistic nativism has been revived in recent years. Linguistic nativism cannot explain behavior such as a mother preparing for a first child, but varying "if-then" considerations lead to the conclusion that empiricism and nativism can coexist on a continuum, with neither being fully acceptable on its own merits. Bibliography lists 9 sources.

Filename: KSinnateKnow.wps

Pages: 9

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Catagory: Philosophy Of Religion, God'S Existence & Freewill

Subcatagory: Philosophy

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