A priori and a posteriori
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| + | The terms "'''''a priori'''''" and "'''''a posteriori'''''" are used in [[philosophy]] to distinguish between [[deductive]] and [[inductive]] reasoning, respectively. Attempts to define clearly or explain ''a priori'' and ''a posteriori'' knowledge are part of a central thread in [[epistemology]], the study of [[knowledge]]. Since the definitions and usage of the terms have been corrupted over time and therefore vary between fields, it is difficult to provide universal definitions of them. One rough and oversimplified explanation is as follows: ''a priori'' knowledge is independent of [[experience]], while ''a posteriori'' knowledge is dependent on experience. In other words, statements that are ''a priori'' true are [[Tautology (logic)|tautologies]]. | ||
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| + | Economists sometimes use "''a priori''" to describe a step in an argument the truth of which can be taken as self-evident. "''A posteriori''", on the other hand, implies that an argument must be based upon empirical evidence. | ||
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The terms "a priori" and "a posteriori" are used in philosophy to distinguish between deductive and inductive reasoning, respectively. Attempts to define clearly or explain a priori and a posteriori knowledge are part of a central thread in epistemology, the study of knowledge. Since the definitions and usage of the terms have been corrupted over time and therefore vary between fields, it is difficult to provide universal definitions of them. One rough and oversimplified explanation is as follows: a priori knowledge is independent of experience, while a posteriori knowledge is dependent on experience. In other words, statements that are a priori true are tautologies.
Economists sometimes use "a priori" to describe a step in an argument the truth of which can be taken as self-evident. "A posteriori", on the other hand, implies that an argument must be based upon empirical evidence.
