How should a Christian view rationalism vs. empiricism?

Answer

Rationalism versus empiricism is a philosophical debate concerning how human beings acquire knowledge. There are various theses associated with rationalism and empiricism. Empiricists rely on the external world as the basis of knowledge, while rationalists turn to their internal world for knowledge. Empiricists argue that true knowledge requires examining empirical evidence—what can be seen, smelled, heard, touched, or tasted. Knowledge is acquired through direct experiences of the surrounding world. In contrast, rationalists believe that humans possess inherent knowledge that is not derived from experience but rather exists within them from birth. Building upon this innate knowledge, rationalists contend that humans can use reason to discover new knowledge. The debate between rationalism and empiricism centers on the distinction between utilizing the scientific method and one’s own reasoning (independent of external evidence) to uncover “truth.”

One renowned rationalist, René Descartes, famously stated, “I think, therefore I am.” His assertion implies that because we have thoughts and ideas that originate a priori (without prior knowledge), we can ascertain our existence and reality. Conversely, the empiricist must confront the uncertainty of whether he—or anything at all—truly exists. If his perception of reality is solely based on senses or personal feelings of pain or pleasure, there is no assurance that he is not a hologram or a product of someone else’s imagination. He could be ensnared in a dreamlike state or trapped in a coma, with no means of certainty. The rationalist dismisses this skepticism, asserting, “Nonsense, you know you exist, as do I, and that settles it. Your existence does not require additional evidence. You think, therefore you exist.”

Regarding a Christian perspective on rationalism versus empiricism, a believer in God should commence withIn contemplating the same questions that any philosopher starts with: how do I know that I know what I know? When I observe the world around me, how can I be certain that my understanding of it is accurate? When I analyze my own thoughts, how do I ensure that my thoughts—and my examination of them—are precise? The solution to these inquiries is not rooted in self-assurance or confidence in one’s mind, but rather in trust in God.

The author of Proverbs advises us to have faith in the Lord with all our heart and not rely on our own comprehension «Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. », (Proverbs 3:5). “But,” someone might inquire, “how can I be certain that my perception of this knowledge from God is not susceptible to the same human fallibilities that other knowledge is prone to?” The response can be found in the subsequent verse, Proverbs 3:6: “In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” What this signifies—and it is a recurring theme throughout all Scripture—is that the only Being who truly comprehends what He knows is God. Due to our limitations, our minds cannot be entirely certain of our thoughts or knowledge, whether we are empiricists examining the evidence, or rationalists relying on inherent knowledge. Even those engaged in the rationalism vs. empiricism discourse will acknowledge that human experience encompasses both a quest for empirical data and a dependence on inherent knowledge. However, every individual is prone to error, and neither method of comprehension will bestow upon us flawless understanding. Hence, we must rely on God to furnish the answers and the knowledge we require «If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. », (James 1:5). God’s Word is truth «Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. », (John 17:17).

Many individuals, at all points of faith, encounter difficulties in trusting God. Job, after questioning God and receiving God’s response, concluded that “surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know” «Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? Therefore have I uttered that I understood not; Things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. », (Job 42:3). It is tempting, in this humanistic era, to believe that by our own power, we can reach any level of knowledge if we simply discover the correct method. However, the Bible informs us that we possess limited power and that we must rely on God if we are ever to experience peace «Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. », (Isaiah 26:3).

If the debate between rationalism and empiricism, or any other philosophical dilemma, is causing you concern, recall Paul’s encouragement to believers: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).