Editing Rationalism and Empiricism (section)

== <span style="color: #FFFFFF;">Understanding</span> ==
The debate is understood through '''Logic vs. Observation'''.

'''1. The Rationalist Path (Descartes)''':
Descartes wanted to find a truth that was impossible to doubt.
* He doubted his senses (they can be tricked by dreams).
* He doubted math (a "demon" could be tricking him).
* But he realized he '''could not doubt that he was doubting'''.
* Therefore, the "Mind" (Reason) is the only thing we can be 100% sure of. Truth is built "Inside-Out."

'''2. The Empiricist Path (Locke/Hume)''':
Locke argued that if we had "Innate Ideas," everyone would be born knowing math and God, but they aren't.
* We learn what a "Circle" is by seeing round things.
* We learn what "Hot" is by touching fire.
* Truth is built "Outside-In" through the data of our eyes, ears, and hands.

'''3. The Problem of Induction (Hume's Challenge)''':
Hume asked: "How do we know the sun will rise tomorrow?"
* We say "Because it always has."
* But that is just a habit of our mind, not a logical proof.
* This "Humean Skepticism" forced philosophers to admit that science is based on "Probabilities," not "Certainties."

'''The Wax Example''': Descartes pointed at a piece of wax. When you melt it, the smell, color, and shape all change. Your senses say it is a "new thing." But your mind knows it is the same wax. This was his proof that "The Mind" understands reality better than "The Senses."
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