Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

What role did the philosophy of empiricism play in Enlightenment thought?

1. It emphasized understanding through religious texts

2. It focused on knowledge gained through sensory experience

3. It promoted adherence to traditional ways of knowing

4. It discouraged scientific experimentation

The correct answer is: It focused on knowledge gained through sensory experience

The philosophy of empiricism played a crucial role in Enlightenment thought by emphasizing that knowledge is primarily gained through sensory experience. This perspective marked a significant departure from previous intellectual traditions that relied heavily on authority, dogma, or abstract reasoning without concrete evidence. Key figures in the Enlightenment, such as John Locke and David Hume, advocated for the idea that observation and experimentation should guide the pursuit of knowledge. By prioritizing sensory experience, empiricism encouraged a systematic approach to understanding the natural world, laying the groundwork for the scientific method. This shift fostered an environment where questioning established beliefs became more acceptable, leading to advancements in science, philosophy, and social discourse. The emphasis on evidence and experience contributed to the development of rational thought, helping to shape modern scientific inquiry and the value placed on reason as a foundation for knowledge during the Enlightenment.