3. Method.
It is therefore worth while to search out the bounds between opinion and knowledge; and examine by
what measures, in things whereof we have no certain knowledge, we ought to regulate our assent and moderate
our persuasion. In order whereunto I shall pursue this following method:--
First, I shall inquire into the original of those ideas, notions, or whatever else you please to call them, which a
man observes, and is conscious to himself he has in his mind; and the ways whereby the understanding comes to
be furnished with them.
Secondly, I shall endeavour to show what knowledge the understanding hath by those ideas; and the certainty,
evidence, and extent of it.
Thirdly, I shall make some inquiry into the nature and grounds of faith or opinion: whereby I mean that assent
which we give to any proposition as true, of whose truth yet we have no certain knowledge. And here we shall
have occasion to examine the reasons and degrees of assent.
