Lesson 5.1: Methods of Philosophizing Flashcards
the study of how we acquire and validate knowledge.
epistemology
purpose of epistemology
acquisition and validation OF KNOWLEDGE
two main ways to acquire knowledge
empiricism and rationalism
Gaining knowledge through senses (seeing, hearing, touching).
empiricism
Using reason and logic to understand concepts.
rationalism
Experiencing reality through senses.
perception
Grouping similar things to form concepts.
concepts
Statements that assert or deny something.
propositions
Using arguments (premises and conclusion) to demonstrate truth.
inference
Determine if what we know is true knowledge.
validating knowledge
How we gain knowledge.
acquisition of knowledge
Methods to check if our knowledge is true.
validation of knowledge
Trace steps back through perception, concept, proposition, and inference.
reduction
True knowledge rests on
sense perception
methods to determine truth
sense perception; proof; consensus; testing through action
Directly observe through senses.
sense perception
Logical process based on sensory evidence.
proof
General agreement (with limitations).
consensus
Test beliefs in practice.
testing through action
refers to statements or facts that are objectively verifiable and consistent with reality.
truth
truth is not influenced by
personal feelings or interpretations
truth can be confirmed through
evidence
truths remain
constant regardless of personal beliefs or opinions
refers to personal beliefs, interpretations, or judgments.
opinions
opinions are
subjective
opinions can vary
from person to person
They are based on individual perspectives and experiences and are not necessarily supported by objective evidence.
opinion
what distinguishes between truth and opinion
critical thinking; effective communication; respectful dialogue; informed decision-making
It helps in evaluating information critically, ensuring that one’s beliefs and decisions are based on facts rather than unfounded opinions.
critical thinking
It fosters clearer communication by distinguishing factual statements from personal beliefs, reducing misunderstandings.
effective communication
Recognizing opinions as subjective encourages respect for differing perspectives and promotes constructive discussions.
respectful dialogue
Decisions, especially in public policy, law, and personal choices, are better made when grounded in verified truths.
informed decision-making
theories of truth
correspondence; coherence; pragmatist THEORY
A statement is true if it accurately describes reality.
correspondence theory of truth
A belief is true if it is consistent with other beliefs or knowledge systems.
coherence theory of truth
A belief is true if it proves useful or works in practice.
pragmatist theory of truth
in correspondence theory, truth
matches reality
in coherence theory, truth
is consistent with other beliefs
in pragmatist theory, truth
is what works in practice