Theory of Knowledge

Undergraduate catalogue

An exploration of central issues in epistemology. What is knowledge, and how is it related to belief, truth, evidence, probability, and certainty? Can we know the future, the distant past, or unobserved aspects of reality-and if so, how? When, if ever, is it reasonable to believe in the absence of evidence, or even contrary to the evidence? Topics include testimony, skepticism, bias and disagreement, and whether beliefs can wrong others. Readings focus on contemporary work, with some classic texts. Two 90-minute classes.