AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -"Blank slate” is a loose translation of the medieval Latin term tabula rasa-literally, “scraped tablet.” It is commonly attributed to the philosopher John Locke (1632-1704), though in fact he used a different metaphor.

Detailed explanation-2: -He argued against innate ideas and in favor of the theory that all knowledge derives from the five senses. Locke believed that the child is born with a blank mind (tabula rasa or blank slate), that he gains knowledge through his sense experiences, and that he improves upon that knowledge through reflection.

Detailed explanation-3: -John Locke, Tabula Rasa, & Blank Slate Theory However, while Locke is most famously associated with blank slate theory and tabula rasa, he was not the creator of either concept. Locke was an observer of nature who focused much of his work on natural philosophy.

Detailed explanation-4: -Locke believes that we are able to notice or experience our mind performing these actions and when we do we receive ideas of reflection. These are ideas such as memory, imagination, desire, doubt, judgment, and choice. Locke’s view is that experience (sensation and reflection) issues us with simple ideas.