What is Knowledge in Philosophy

Knowledge is a fundamental concept in philosophy, which seeks to understand the nature and limits of human knowledge. In this glossary, we will explore the meaning and different philosophical approaches to knowledge, as well as their main theories and debates.

Definition of Knowledge

Knowledge can be defined as the understanding or awareness that a person has about something. It is the result of the interaction between the human mind and the world around it, allowing it to acquire information, ideas and skills. In philosophy, knowledge is a central theme, as it seeks to understand how human beings can achieve and justify their beliefs and propositions.

Types of Knowledge

There are different types of knowledge, which vary according to the way they are acquired and validated. Some of the main types of knowledge are:

Empirical Knowledge

Empirical knowledge is knowledge acquired through sensory experience and observation of the world around us. It is based on concrete evidence and can be obtained by anyone, as long as they have access to the senses and the ability to interpret the information perceived. Examples of empirical knowledge include knowing that water boils at 100 degrees Celsius or that the sun rises in the east.

Rational Knowledge

Rational knowledge is knowledge obtained through reason and logical thinking. It is based on universal principles and the human ability to deduce conclusions from premises. Unlike empirical knowledge, rational knowledge does not depend on sensory experience, but rather on the ability to reason and infer. Examples of rational knowledge include knowing that all triangles have three sides or that the sum of the interior angles of a square is always 360 degrees.

Scientific knowledge

Scientific knowledge is that obtained through the scientific method, which involves observation, formulating hypotheses, carrying out experiments and analyzing the results. It is characterized by the search for objectivity and verifiability, seeking to eliminate biases and subjectivities. Scientific knowledge is cumulative and subject to review and updating as new evidence is discovered. Examples of scientific knowledge include the laws of physics, theories of evolution, and discoveries in medicine.

Philosophical Knowledge

Philosophical knowledge is that obtained through reflection and conceptual analysis. It is characterized by the search for answers to fundamental questions about existence, human nature, morality and truth. Unlike scientific knowledge, philosophical knowledge is not based on experiments or empirical observations, but rather on logical argumentation and critical reflection. Examples of philosophical knowledge include theories about the origin of the universe, discussions about ethics and reflections on the nature of the human being.

Theories of Knowledge

The philosophy of knowledge, also known as epistemology, seeks to understand how knowledge is acquired, justified and validated. Various theories and philosophical approaches have been developed throughout history to explain the nature of knowledge. Some of the main theories of knowledge are:

Empiricism

Empiricism is a philosophical current that argues that all knowledge is acquired through sensory experience. According to empiricists, the human mind is a “blank slate” at the moment of birth, and all ideas and knowledge are acquired later through observation and experience. For empiricists, the source of knowledge is sensory experience, and reason plays a secondary role in the formation of beliefs.

Rationalism

Rationalism is a philosophical current that argues that knowledge is obtained through reason and logical thinking. According to rationalists, the human mind has innate ideas and universal principles that are the basis for the acquisition of knowledge. For rationalists, reason is the source of knowledge, and sensory experience plays a secondary role in the formation of beliefs.

Constructivism

Constructivism is a philosophical current that argues that knowledge is actively constructed by the subject, through interaction with the world and the construction of meanings. According to constructivists, knowledge is not a copy of reality, but rather a personal and social construction, influenced by individual experiences and cultural contexts. For constructivists, knowledge is an active and subjective construction, and reality is interpreted according to the cognitive structures of each individual.

Skepticism

Skepticism is a philosophical current that questions the possibility of achieving absolute and indubitable knowledge. According to skeptics, all beliefs and propositions must be questioned and subjected to doubt, as there is no guarantee that they can be true. For skeptics, knowledge is always provisional and subject to revision, and absolute certainty is unattainable.

Conclusion

In this glossary, we explore the concept of knowledge in philosophy, its different forms and theories, as well as its implications for understanding the world and human nature. Knowledge is a complex and multifaceted topic, which continues to be an object of study and debate in philosophy and other areas of knowledge. By understanding different philosophical approaches to knowledge, we can broaden our understanding of the world and improve our ability to acquire and justify our beliefs and propositions.