more from Bertrand Russell

Single Idea 5415

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / A. A Priori Knowledge / 2. Self-Evidence]

Full Idea

It is clear from the case of memory that self-evidence has degrees, and is present in gradations ranging from absolute certainty down to an almost imperceptible faintness.

Gist of Idea

As shown by memory, self-evidence comes in degrees

Source

Bertrand Russell (Problems of Philosophy [1912], Ch.11)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'The Problems of Philosophy' [OUP 1995], p.67


A Reaction

I am beginning to see Russell as the 'father of modern rationalism'. His relaxation of notions of an all-or-nothing a priori, and of a sharp distinction between axioms and proofs, lead to a sensible rationalism which even a Humean sceptic might buy.