The opposite of empiricism is rationalism.
Empiricism is the philosophical theory that emphasizes knowledge coming from sensory experience. It suggests that all our knowledge is rooted in what we can see, hear, touch, and experience in the world around us. In contrast, rationalism posits that reason and intellect are the primary sources of knowledge, often asserting that certain truths exist independently of sensory experience. Rationalists argue that there are innate ideas or principles that can be known through reason alone, without necessarily relying on observational evidence.
This distinction leads to different approaches in areas such as science, ethics, and the nature of reality. While empiricists focus on experimentation and observation to form knowledge, rationalists may prioritize logical deduction and theoretical reasoning. Together, these philosophies contribute to a broader understanding of how we acquire knowledge and perceive the world.