Department: Philosophy
Description: What is knowledge What makes a belief rational Do we know anything A historical introduction to contemporary epistemology. Grade of C or better in at least one philosophy course recommended.
Credit Hours: 3
Dates: 08/19/2024 - 12/07/2024
Location: Adlai E. Stevenson Hall 227A (STV 227A)
Instructor: Todd Stewart
Class Notes: COURSE DESCRIPTION: What is rational belief? What is knowledge? Do we have either? If so, about which topics? What is the limit of human knowledge? Are there good reasons to think that we lack knowledge or rational belief about various kinds of things? What is the relationship of the sciences to human knowledge? In PHI 263, we will discuss leading theories of knowledge and rational belief, along with traditional (and not-so traditional) problems that center around our knowledge of (or rational belief in) the existence of the external world. Students will gain a good grasp of the basic contours of contemporary epistemology while improving their critical thinking and writing skills, as well as developing their grasp of general philosophical methodology.