Knowledge based on deduction and axiomatic insights, such as mathematics, does not depend on the word of authorities, because it can be verified directly. Although it may be convenient to rely on authoritative sources in cases where complicated chains of thought are involved, direct verification is preferable, because it provides a sounder basis for one's knowledge.

The dependence of knowledge on experience is not just a theoretical point, but a fact that has profound practical implications for human well-being. In particular, we shall find later that specific kinds of economic and political institutions may assist or hamper the flow of experiential information, thereby either enabling or preventing human beings from realizing their ends effectively.