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2 ideas
2206 | Reasons for belief must eventually terminate in experience, or they are without foundation [Hume] |
Full Idea: If I ask why you believe some fact, you must tell me a reason, which will be some other fact, connected with it. But this process must terminate in a fact which is present to your memory or senses; or you must allow that the belief is without foundation. | |
From: David Hume (Enquiry Conc Human Understanding [1748], V.I.37) | |
A reaction: A classic quotation of empirical foundationalism. The rival view would be that the process does not terminate at all, but nevertheless builds up a persuasive picture which is foundational. |
2235 | There is no certain supreme principle, or infallible rule of inference [Hume] |
Full Idea: There is no original supreme principle that is self-evident and convincing; nor, if there were, could we advance a step beyond it, but by those very faculties of which sceptics are supposed to be already diffident. | |
From: David Hume (Enquiry Conc Human Understanding [1748], XII.I.116) | |
A reaction: This I take to be the chief exponent of empirical foundationalism attacking rational foundationalism. The problem of 'advancing beyond' basic beliefs is also a problem for Hume's position. |