Which philosophical foundation of science posits that knowledge can only be acquired through experience?

Empiricism is the philosophical foundation of science that emphasizes the role of experience and empirical evidence in the formation of knowledge. This perspective asserts that knowledge arises from sensory experiences and that observations, experiments, and real-world interactions provide the basis for understanding and validating concepts. In the context of nursing practice, empiricism influences how practitioners gather data, observe patient behavior, and assess health outcomes, all through direct experiential evidence.

Rationalism, on the other hand, emphasizes reasoning and theoretical deduction as the primary means of acquiring knowledge, which contrasts with the experiential focus of empiricism. Idealism centers on the mental construction of knowledge and the belief that reality is primarily shaped by the mind and consciousness, rather than by direct experience. Constructivism emphasizes the learning process as active and social, stating that knowledge is constructed through interactions and experiences but does not solely rely on sensory input.

Thus, the foundation of empiricism distinctly establishes that knowledge is primarily derived from experiential learning and observation, aligning perfectly with its definition and role in both philosophy and practice.