Truth and Knowledge in Philosophy
Truth and Knowledge
Truth of Empirical Propositions
Empirical propositions are those that depend on experience.
Theories of Truth
- Truth as Correspondence: A proposition is true if it corresponds to a fact.
- Truth as Coherence: A proposition is true if it does not conflict with other accepted propositions.
- Truth as Utility: A proposition is true if it is useful or leads to success. For example, Sigmund Freud’s assertion of the unconscious can be considered true because psychoanalysis has proven useful.
Truth of Formal Propositions
Propositions in mathematics or logic are formal. Their truth is determined by formal coherence, meaning they do not involve contradictions or conflict with other propositions within their theory (e.g., 3 squared is 9).
Criteria for Recognizing Truth
Evidence
Evidence comes from the Latin word “videre,” meaning “to see.” Knowledge is evident when it produces certainty, preventing hesitation. However, certainty can be subjective and influenced by individual circumstances.
Intersubjectivity
Knowledge is true if it is acceptable to any intelligent person. If most rational individuals support an understanding, it becomes objective and true. However, consensus does not guarantee truth, as majorities can be wrong (e.g., geocentrism).
The Limits of Knowledge
The Possibility of Knowledge
- Dogmatism: The belief that we can acquire certain and universal knowledge (e.g., Descartes).
- Skepticism: The belief that no knowledge is certain or universal (e.g., Pyrrho).
- Criticism: Attempts to reconcile dogmatism and skepticism (e.g., Kant).
- Relativism: Denies the possibility of absolute truth, believing truth is determined by societal circumstances and beliefs.
- Perspectivism: Similar to relativism but acknowledges that truth can be perceived differently based on individual perspectives (e.g., Ortega y Gasset).
The Conquest of Truth: A Collective Task
Humans strive to avoid ignorance and error. The conquest of truth involves two efforts: overcoming ignorance and overcoming error. This task is both ongoing (throughout history) and collective (involving all of society).