What Philosophy Says about the Self

Task #2A: How Do I See Myself?

Individual Activity

Name: Iris Angeles Course Code: 1028

Instructions: Read the different statements below and answer the succeeding questions. In
answering, take note of the three discerning points between empiricism and rationalism.

Rationalism Empiricism

The primary and most superior source of The only source of genuine knowledge about
knowledge about reality is reason. the world is sense of experience.

Sense experience is an unreliable and Reason is an unreliable and inadequate route

inadequate route to knowledge. to knowledge unless it is grounded in the
solid bedrock of sense experience.

The fundamental truths about the world can There is no such thing as innate knowledge
be known a priori: either innate or self- because knowledge is derived from
evident to our minds. experience. The mind before experience is a
tabula rasa, a blank slate.

1. When you are studying or reviewing lessons, are you more likely to take the rationalist
viewpoint or empiricist viewpoint? Why?

● In studying or reviewing lessons, I am more likely to take the empiricist viewpoint

because I readily get knowledge and experience when I do it on my own.

2. How do you apply empiricism and/or rationalism in studying your lessons? Be specific and
concrete. Try to remember your habits and how you make sense of the lesson.

● I apply empiricism in studying our lessons by doing it on my own and practicing until I
understand it. Since we usually focus on calculating or solving problems, I usually
construct my own example and practice until I get it.

3. Is it possible to make use of both philosophical approaches? Why or why not?

● Yes, it is possible to use both philosophical approaches. Many different philosophical

views provide distinct perspectives and insights into various elements of life
knowledge and reality. Integrating multiple approaches allows us to have a more
complete knowledge and approach to philosophical research.