Which philosophy suggests that humans are born as a "blank slate"?

The concept of "tabula rasa," which translates to "blank slate," originates from the philosophies of John Locke. This idea posits that individuals are born without inherent knowledge or pre-existing ideas; instead, they are shaped by their experiences and environment. Locke argued that humans acquire knowledge through sensory experiences and reflection, meaning that personal development and understanding are largely influenced by one's surroundings and education. This philosophical perspective emphasizes the potential for growth and change, asserting that anyone can develop their character and intellect based on the inputs they receive throughout their lives.

In contrast, other philosophies such as natural rights focus on the inherent rights individuals possess by virtue of being human, while the divine right of kings suggests that monarchs derive their authority directly from divine will. The social contract theory discusses the implicit agreement between individuals and their government regarding the rights and responsibilities of both parties. Each of these philosophies differs fundamentally from the concept of tabula rasa as they do not propose that humans start from a neutral or uninformed state.