Which philosophy emphasizes that knowledge is obtained through scientific inquiry?

The philosophy that emphasizes knowledge obtained through scientific inquiry is realism. Realism posits that the world exists independently of our perceptions and that we can gain knowledge about this world through observation and experimentation. This approach is fundamental to the scientific method, which relies on empirical evidence and testing to understand natural phenomena, making it a cornerstone of realistic philosophy.

In a realist context, education should focus on teaching students how to gather evidence, conduct experiments, and reason logically in order to arrive at conclusions about the world. This aligns perfectly with the principles of scientific inquiry, which is characterized by systematic investigation and critical analysis.

Pragmatism, while also valuing experience and experimentation, does not prioritize scientific inquiry as its primary means of acquiring knowledge. Instead, it emphasizes the practical application of ideas. Idealism focuses on ideas and mental concepts as the primary source of knowledge, often dismissing the material world. Constructivism centers on the learner's individual experiences and interpretations as the pathway to understanding, rather than on a rigorous scientific framework. Therefore, realism is the most aligned with the philosophy of obtaining knowledge through scientific inquiry.