Exploring the Definition of Real Knowledge in Philosophy: Comparative Perspectives

Philosophy has long sought to understand the nature of reality, the existence of truth, and the contours of knowledge. Central to this inquiry are three criteria for knowledge: belief, truth, and justification. However, the understanding and application of these criteria have evolved over time, especially due to the challenges posed by philosophers like Edmund Gettier. This article delves into the tripartite definition of knowledge and how different philosophical traditions, such as Hinduism and Western philosophy, approach the concept.

The Tripartite Definition of Knowledge

For something to be considered knowledge, it must meet three primary criteria:

Belief: An individual must hold a belief that something is true. This means the person must be convinced that the statement or proposition is accurate. Truth: The belief must correspond to reality; that is, the statement or proposition must align with the facts or the state of affairs in the world. Justification: There must be sufficient justification for the belief. This means the individual must have reasons or evidence supporting their belief, making it rational to hold the belief.

However, the challenge proposed by philosopher Edmund Gettier in 1963 led to further debates and developments in epistemology. Gettier's counterexamples introduced scenarios where the traditional tripartite definition of knowledge did not hold, prompting philosophers to refine and redefine the concept.

Theoretical Developments in Epistemology

Philosophers have since explored various theories to refine our understanding of knowledge:

Reliabilism: This theory suggests that knowledge is justified true belief that is produced by a reliable cognitive process. According to reliabilism, the process by which one acquires knowledge must be reliable and repeatable. Virtue Epistemology: This approach emphasizes the role of the intellectual virtues of the knower, focusing on the qualities that a good thinker should possess. Intellectual virtues include wisdom, intellectual courage, and intellectual honesty. Contextualism: This view argues that the standards for knowledge can vary depending on the context in which knowledge claims are made. Contextualism suggests that what counts as justification or belief can differ based on the context.

Philosophy in Different Traditions

While philosophy as a discipline is not unique to Hinduism, the concept of knowledge in Hinduism is somewhat different. According to Hindu philosophy, knowledge is seen as a direct perception or dharshan rather than a rational construct. Dharshan signifies the act of seeing with one's eyes, heart, and intellect, making it a more holistic and experiential form of knowledge.

For example, in Hinduism, the Vedic rishis and Upanishad rishis are believed to have experienced the ultimate truth directly through their own perceptions and understanding. The Vedic texts and Upanishads are not considered philosophical treatises in the Western sense but rather revealed texts that provide deep insights into the nature of reality and the self. Hence, the dharshan shastras or philosophical discourses in Hinduism are more about revealing the truth than constructing rational arguments.

On the other hand, Western philosophy places a strong emphasis on rational argumentation and empirical evidence. Philosophers in the West often attempt to provide the best reasons for their views, even if these reasons fall short of absolute certainty. This approach aligns more closely with the traditional tripartite definition of knowledge: belief, truth, and justification.

Philosophy and its Aspirations

Philosophy, particularly in its Western manifestation, strives to understand and give the best reasons for views on society and the world. However, it acknowledges that the reasons provided may not be decisive enough to claim absolute knowledge. Instead, philosophy seeks to provide reasoned arguments that are coherent and convincing, even if they cannot be conclusively proven.

In essence, the concept of real knowledge in philosophy is a dynamic and evolving notion. While it remains grounded in the traditional tripartite criteria of belief, truth, and justification, the interpretations and applications of these criteria continue to adapt to new philosophical insights and challenges. Whether in Hinduism or Western philosophy, the quest for knowledge remains a fundamental endeavor in understanding the world and our place within it.