Epistemology: Criteria of Truth and Philosophical Positions

Criteria of Truth

Evidence

Evidence refers to facts and propositions presented as obvious. Knowledge is considered evident when there is a certainty that prevents us from doubting its truth.

Failure of this criterion: The feeling of certainty and security that accompanies evidence is a mental state. Because this feeling is subjective, it is not a satisfactory criterion for truth.

Intersubjectivity

Intersubjectivity posits that for beliefs to be accepted as knowledge, they must be acceptable to any rational individual. Knowledge is objective and should be shareable by all, relying on collective recognition rather than individual perception.

Failure of this criterion: This is not a sufficient guarantee of truth. While true knowledge should be supported by everyone, the fact that everyone admits something does not necessarily make it true.

Philosophical Positions on Knowledge

Dogmatism

A philosophical position asserting that we can acquire universal, certain knowledge. It advocates for the progressive expansion of our understanding with an optimistic attitude. Key figure: René Descartes.

Skepticism

A position opposed to dogmatism:

• Moderate Skepticism: Questions the possibility of firm and certain knowledge.
• Radical Skepticism: Denies that knowledge is possible, considering the claim of accessing absolute truth an unattainable desire.

Key figure: Pyrrho of Elis.

Criticism

A position halfway between dogmatism and skepticism. For critical thinkers like Immanuel Kant, knowledge is possible, but it is not definitive or unquestionable; it must be constantly reviewed to detect errors.

Relativism

A position that denies the existence of absolute truth. It rejects the claim of objective, universal knowledge, suggesting that there are only individual opinions shaped by social context, culture, and history.

Perspectivism

This theory shares similarities with relativism but differs in one key aspect: it does not deny the theoretical possibility of an absolute truth. According to this theory, knowledge is viewed from specific perspectives.