A priori ('from the earlier') and a posteriori ('from the later') are Latin phrases used in philosophy to distinguish types of knowledge, justification, or argument by their reliance on experience. A priori knowledge is independent from any experience. Examples include mathematics, [i] tautologies and deduction from pure reason.

Apr 2, 2025 · A priori knowledge, knowledge that is acquired independently of any experience, as opposed to a posteriori knowledge, which is derived from experience. The Latin terms a priori and a posteriori mean ‘from what is before’ and ‘from what is after,’ respectively.

Dec 9, 2007 · Roughly speaking, a priori justification provides reasons for thinking a proposition is true that comes from merely understanding, or thinking about, that proposition. In contrast, a posteriori justification requires more than merely understanding a proposition.

“A priori” and “a posteriori” refer primarily to how, or on what basis, a proposition might be known. In general terms, a proposition is knowable a priori if it is knowable independently of experience, while a proposition knowable a posteriori is knowable on the basis of experience.

A priori knowledge is knowledge that comes from the power of reasoning based on self-evident truths; a priori usually describes lines of reasoning or arguments that proceed from the general to the particular, or from causes to effects.

Apr 13, 2024 · According to Immanuel Kant, the great German philosopher of the 18th century, there are two types of knowledge: a priori and a posteriori. Understanding them is the preliminary key to unlocking Kantian philosophy, particularly his works on epistemology and metaphysics.

Sep 20, 2023 · A priori knowledge is independent of experience and based on reasoning, while a posteriori knowledge depends on sensory input and empirical observation. Both types of knowledge play essential roles in how we understand the …

Sep 8, 2024 · A priori knowledge forms an essential component of human understanding, providing foundational truths that underpin logical reasoning, theoretical work, and everyday decision-making. It complements empirical knowledge by offering insights and principles that do not depend on sensory experience.

a priori, In epistemology, knowledge that is independent of all particular experiences, as opposed to a posteriori (or empirical) knowledge, which derives from experience. The terms have their origins in the medieval Scholastic debate over Aristotelian concepts (see Scholasticism).

Nov 21, 2023 · What is the meaning of a priori knowledge? A priori knowledge is a type of knowledge that a person has when they know some fact without having any evidence from experience; their justification...