Section outline

  • Decorative image detailing the process of Epistemology

    (Original image by Peter Klubek CC-BY)
    Epistemology, a foundational branch of philosophy, is a captivating exploration into the nature, scope, and limits of human knowledge. It delves into the fundamental questions surrounding how we come to know, understand, and justify our beliefs about the world. Epistemology investigates the criteria that differentiate justified true beliefs from mere opinion, and it scrutinizes the various sources of knowledge, such as perception, reason, memory, and testimony. By examining concepts like skepticism, certainty, and truth, epistemology challenges us to unravel the intricacies of our cognitive processes and to assess the reliability of our knowledge claims. This philosophical discipline engages with a diverse array of theories and viewpoints, ranging from ancient inquiries by Plato and Aristotle to modern investigations by Descartes, Hume, and beyond. In essence, epistemology invites us to embark on a profound journey of introspection and analysis, shaping our understanding of the intellectual foundations that underpin our engagement with the world.

    Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:
    1. Demonstrate historical and contemporary perspectives on the nature and sources of knowledge of how different philosophers have grappled with questions of certainty, doubt, and skepticism.
    2. Examine the role of perception, memory, reasoning, and testimony in the formation of beliefs and knowledge claims, as related to their reliability and limitations.

    To achieve these objectives:

    1. Read the Module 2 Introduction
    2. Read Chapter 2 sections 5-12 in Readings in Western Philosophy for Louisiana Learners.
    3. Complete the assignment and discussion board.

    Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities

    You will find the following resources and activities in this module at the Pressbooks website. Click on the links below to access or complete each item.

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