Conclusion

Question 1

It might be assumed that to know the truth we should develop a method of inquiry or a set of rules for establishing facts, however perhaps the more important and valuable approach is more like an attitude. Establishing truth requires epistemic virtues like modesty, scepticism, openness to other perspectives, a spirit of collective inquiry, a readiness to confront power, a desire to create better truths, and a willingness to let our morals be guided by the facts. Perhaps more succinctly stated as sincerity and accuracy.

Question 2

Spiritual truths should not compete with secular truths and instead should be seen as a different species.

Question 3

We should think for ourselves, not by ourselves.

Question 4

We should be sceptical, but not cynical.

Question 5

Reason demands modesty, not certainty.

Question 6

To become smarter, we must understand the ways we are dumb.

Question 7

Truths need to be created as well as found.

Question 8

Alternative perspectives should be sought not as alternative truths but as enrichers of truth.

Question 9

Power doesn’t speak truth; truth must speak to power.

Question 10

For better morality we need better knowledge.

Question 11

Truth needs to be understood holistically.

Question 12

The defense of truth often takes the form of battles to defend particular truths that divide us. The greater, unifying enterprise is to defend the shared value we place on truth, the virtues that lead us toward it, and the principles that help us identify it.