Chapter 15 Epistemology – Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key epistemology concepts from the lecture notes.

Epistemology

Branch of philosophy that studies knowledge—the nature, origin, and scope of knowledge, its sources (perception, reason, memory, testimony), and the conditions for knowledge (truth and justification).

Knowledge

Justified true belief; knowledge is more than belief and requires justification and truth.

Declarative Knowledge

Facts, concepts, and information; theoretical or propositional knowledge; can be expressed in declarative sentences (e.g., Paris is the capital of France).

Procedural Knowledge

Know-how; practical ability to do something; gained through practice and experience; you must learn by doing.

Relational Knowledge

Knowledge by acquaintance; familiarity with a person, place, or thing obtained through engagement and experience (e.g., knowing Robert or navigating a city).

Knowledge by Acquaintance

Another term for relational knowledge; understanding built from direct experience with the object of knowledge.

Empiricism

Knowledge comes from experience and sense perception; supported by observation and experiments (direct evidence from the senses).

Rationalism

Knowledge gained through thinking and reasoning, often independent of sensory experience; emphasized use of intellect and deduction.

Authority

Source of knowledge accepted because it comes from an authority figure or expert; can be wrong, so critical evaluation is important.

Introspection

Examining one’s own thoughts, emotions, and mental processes as a source of knowledge; often linked to rationalism.

Revelation

Truths disclosed by a higher power; often involves sacred scriptures and direct communication believed to be from the divine.

Pragmatism

Knowledge as a tool for action; value lies in practical consequences and problem-solving effectiveness; knowledge evolves through experience.

Relativism

Truth, knowledge, or justification is relative to context (culture, era, personal beliefs) rather than universal.

Absolutism

Belief that universal, context-independent truths exist and apply everywhere.

Skepticism

Philosophical doubt about certainty; questioning claims to knowledge and seeking justification; associated with methodological doubt.

Knowledge versus Beliefs

Belief is a mental state of holding something to be true; knowledge is justified true belief—requires justification and truth, not just belief.

Innate Ideas (Plato)

Idea that knowledge is inborn and can be recalled or accessed through proper questioning.

Kant (Immanuel Kant)

Proposed that knowledge arises from a synthesis of experience (empiricism) and innate concepts (rationalism); both contribute to knowing.