Philosophy A-Level
A priori/a posteriori distinction
What A priori/a posteriori distinction means in Philosophy A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of A priori/a posteriori distinction
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain A priori/a posteriori distinction in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A classification of how a proposition is known or justified, concerning justification rather than the origin of the concepts.
Topics that use A priori/a posteriori distinction
- Subject content: Philosophical terminology (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- A priori knowledge
- Analytic/synthetic distinction
- Certainty versus necessity
- Claim type versus truth value
- Consistency
- Containment of predicate in subject
- Contradiction as a test for analyticity
- Deductive validity
Using A priori/a posteriori distinction in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Philosophy questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Philosophy A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge