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2 ideas
5991 | For Aristotle, knowledge is of causes, and is theoretical, practical or productive [Aristotle, by Code] |
Full Idea: Aristotle thinks that in general we have knowledge or understanding when we grasp causes, and he distinguishes three fundamental types of knowledge - theoretical, practical and productive. | |
From: report of Aristotle (works [c.330 BCE]) by Alan D. Code - Aristotle | |
A reaction: Productive knowledge we tend to label as 'knowing how'. The centrality of causes for knowledge would get Aristotle nowadays labelled as a 'naturalist'. It is hard to disagree with his three types, though they may overlap. |
3657 | Understanding, not the senses, gives certainty [Descartes] |
Full Idea: Certainty is not in the sense but in the understanding alone, when it has evident perceptions. | |
From: René Descartes (Preface to 'Principles of Philosophy' [1647], p.177) |