What does the term 'empirical' in empiricism refer to?

The term 'empirical' in empiricism specifically refers to sensory experience, which is the foundation of this philosophical approach. Empiricism emphasizes that knowledge is primarily acquired through direct observation and experience rather than through innate ideas or pure reasoning alone. This perspective asserts that understanding comes from what can be observed, measured, and experienced, making sensory experience crucial for the validity of knowledge claims.

In the context of the history of psychology and philosophy, empiricists like John Locke and David Hume argued against rationalist positions that prioritized reason and innate knowledge. They maintained that all our ideas and understanding of the world stem from what we seek through our senses, making empirical evidence essential for scientific inquiry and psychological study. Sensory experience thus not only validates knowledge but also helps shape our understanding of human behavior and mental processes.