Word: priory
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...argument he reasons a posteriori, from a priori grounds, to put it paradoxically; for it is usually considered the first duty of an inductive reasoner to collect data, but this investigator shows a truly Spinozan disregard for mere facts. In order, therefore, to disentangle his argument from the maze of rhetorical rhapsody in which, like the fabled cuttle-fish of the deep, he shrouds his thought, an analysis is necessary. We find, then...
Character. - Self-confident and self-asserting. Strong belief in freedom of thought, and in no one who disagrees with him. Deep interest in everything tending to develop mental power, and in nothing else. Remarkable aptitude to discovery of new and astonishing theories, usually founded upon a priori reasoning. Conversation varied, and covering all topics, but sure to assume witheringly sarcastic tone, if opposing theories or arguments not strictly original are advanced. Great admiration for "lights of the age," and desire to be considered as such. Amusing for short time, but apt to become a bore. Generally honest, but utterly destitute...
...priori grounds, at least, it is safe to say that seldom during the year has Harvard been represented by such an elegant assemblage of wit, or, at any rate, of wisdom, as, meeting round the festive board at Parker's on Friday evening, April 16, prolonged its feast of reason, without artificial aid from the flowing bowl, almost into Saturday morning. There were present about thirty of the more prominent scholars of the upper classes, who had there met together for mutual amusement. The injunctions of the menu had been carefully and fully observed by half past nine, and then...
...this position, as the course of study was then arranged, he came in contact, sooner or later, with all the undergraduates. His knowledge of his department was most thorough; his views, founded on those of Butler, Reid, Stewart, and Jouffroy, inclined, but entirely without bigotry, to the a priori theory in ethics and metaphysics. His teaching was thoroughly direct and practical; the homely richness of his illustrations, and the living morality that gave point to all his theories, were alive with the very spirit of Plato, in those best dialogues where the mighty master indulges neither in disingenuous quibbles...
...Then there are perhaps some who would pay more attention to the service if they were fully awake, and did not feel tired from want of sleep. Let those who favor the present system remember how different theory is from practice, and that they only argue a priori, while we know from experience...