Belief and Exact Knowledge: The Quest for Truth
In a world where facts and beliefs coexist, the quest for exact knowledge is an ongoing journey. Some forms of knowledge are exact, such as mathematical operations, while others are more subjective, like personal experiences. This article explores the relationship between belief and exact knowledge, examining how the reliability of beliefs can be measured and how exact knowledge is pursued.
Exact vs. Inexact Knowledge
Knowledge can be categorized into two broad types: exact and inexact. Exact knowledge is highly reliable and can be proven through clear and repeatable means. In contrast, inexact knowledge relies on individual perceptions and experiences, which may vary widely. For example, mathematical operations such as addition and subtraction are exact and can be verified through multiple methods. However, a statement like "What are girls like?" is inexact because it depends on individual experiences and cannot be universally confirmed.
The Value of Reliable Beliefs
While every person holds beliefs, not all beliefs are equally reliable. Reliable beliefs are those that are well-supported by evidence and widely accepted. For instance, the belief that humans have faces and that the nose is centrally located in the face is considered a fact. This belief is based on consistent and observable evidence.
The Earth as a Globe
The belief that the Earth is a globe and not flat is also a well-supported fact. This belief is based on a vast amount of evidence and the consensus of the scientific community. Space images and calculations of Earth's curvature provide strong evidence to support this belief. The concept of a flat Earth became popular only recently with the rise of various conspiracy theories.
Superstition and Reliance on Belief
Superstitious individuals often base their beliefs on no rhyme or reason and disregard evidence. Such individuals believe whatever suits their desires. In contrast, those who are serious about acquiring exact knowledge rely on evidence and logical reasoning. The quest for truth is more than just believing; it involves an examination of evidence and a willingness to change beliefs based on new information.
Exact Knowledge in Specific Fields
The search for exact knowledge is particularly important in fields where precise understanding is essential, such as scientific research. Exact knowledge in biology, for example, can help explain how the human face is formed. If one knows that a certain genetic material ensures the formation of a central nose in the human face, then that knowledge can be used to understand and predict facial structure.
An Example of Exact Knowledge
Consider the claim that every human face has a nose at its center. This is an exact claim, as no human face can be found that defies this rule. The belief is backed by scientific evidence and observation. By "theo-seeing" or carefully observing and analyzing human faces, one can gain exact knowledge. Conversely, chaos or randomness creates accidents that have no regularity or cause. The concept of "diabolos" represents disorder and randomness, not giving rise to any regular phenomena.
Conclusion
The pursuit of exact knowledge is crucial for those who are serious about acquiring accurate and reliable information. Beliefs must be grounded in evidence to be considered valid. Superstitions and unverified beliefs are of little value in the quest for truth. By embracing evidence and reason, individuals can achieve a deeper understanding of the world around them.