Single Idea 16724

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / B. Perception / 1. Perception]

Full Idea

It is certain that the senses deceive, but they also testify to their own errors.

Gist of Idea

The senses deceive, but also show their own errors

Source

Francis Bacon (Preface to Great Instauration (Renewal) [1620], p.32), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 22.1

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.492


A Reaction

Nice. This is the empiricist view, rather than the rationalist line that reason sorts out the mess created by the senses. Most people know things if you just show them.