Which epistemology emphasizes credible facts derived from observable phenomena?

Positivism epistemology is the approach that emphasizes credible facts derived from observable phenomena. It is grounded in the idea that knowledge should be based solely on empirical evidence—information acquired through observation and experimentation. This perspective holds that the only authentic knowledge is that which can be scientifically verified. As a result, positivism relies on quantifiable data and often utilizes statistical analysis to draw conclusions about the world. This aligns with the scientific method, emphasizing objectivity and the role of observable facts in the formation of knowledge.

In contrast, critical realism acknowledges the existence of an objective reality but also recognizes the influence of social constructions in interpreting observations. Constructivism posits that knowledge is constructed rather than discovered, emphasizing the subjective experiences of individuals. Idealism suggests that reality is mentally constructed and that only the mind truly knows reality, which diverges from the focus on observable facts central to positivism. Thus, positivism is the most suitable choice for an epistemology centered on credible facts derived from observable phenomena.