How do I know the things I know?

[Akincana Krishna dasa]

Okay, please elaborate on some of the empirical data, experiments and proofs.

The entirety of the conscious experience of our lives constitutes the preliminary empirical data. You may notice, for example, that you exist. Why? Everyone has to die. Why? No one wants suffering, but suffering comes. Why? I am a conscious entity forced to suffer a troublesome existence - this experience leads us to ask who we are and what we're meant for.

Vedic knowledge offers both a theoretical explanation of reality, as well as a methodology for how to realize ourselves. I'm happy to elaborate on this, if interested. The simplest summary of the worldview offered by Vedic knowledge is given in the Bhagavad Gita.

Proof is when an aspirant achieves self-realization by these standard spiritual methodologies, which includes the reawakening of her eternal relationship with the supreme consciousness.

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Are not saints dead people?

I don't know if someone uses the word that way.

A saint is a person with saintly qualities. Krishna says this in Bhagavad Gita:

"Fearlessness; purification of one's existence; cultivation of spiritual knowledge; charity; self-control; performance of sacrifice; study of the Vedas; austerity; simplicity; nonviolence; truthfulness; freedom from anger; renunciation; tranquillity; aversion to faultfinding; compassion for all living entities; freedom from covetousness; gentleness; modesty; steady determination; vigor; forgiveness; fortitude; cleanliness; and freedom from envy and from the passion for honor -- these transcendental qualities, O son of Bharata, belong to godly men endowed with divine nature." (BG 16.1-3)

I've met several genuine saints in my life.