This book is concerned chiefly with theories about learning in the history of philosophy, especially ancient philosophy. One of the main questions is: does our knowledge arise just out of experience or do we have some innate knowledge as well? The book is original in comparing different theories over a wide period in a way that should be accessible to students of philosophy and classics as well as professionals. It also has a section on seventeenth-century discussions of innate knowledge and their relation to ancient thought.
Reviews
"Scott argues skillfully... A stirring conclusion..." International Studies in Philosophy "The breadth of the discussion is quite great. It will behoove anyone interested in the notion of innateness to look at this book." Allen Silverman, Bryn Mawr Classical Review "Dominic Scott's Recollection and Experience reminds us all of the richness of ancient philosophy and its legacy on the subsequent history of philosophy, particularly the 17th century." David Glidden, Ancient Philosophy