Problem of the criterion

Definition

The problem of the criterion refers to a philosophical issue that arises in epistemology, focusing on how we determine what counts as knowledge or justified belief. It raises questions about how we can establish criteria for knowledge without already having some knowledge in place. This dilemma is significant because it highlights the tension between different forms of skepticism and the foundationalist approach to justification, impacting debates about realism and anti-realism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The problem of the criterion poses a challenge for establishing reliable methods for acquiring knowledge, as it suggests we cannot define what counts as knowledge without already knowing something.
2. It emphasizes the circular nature of defining criteria for knowledge and having prior knowledge to validate those criteria.
3. This problem is central to discussions in epistemology, especially concerning skepticism, as it raises doubts about our ability to know anything at all.
4. Different philosophical approaches attempt to address this issue, with foundationalists arguing for basic beliefs that do not require justification and coherentists suggesting that beliefs are justified within a web of interconnected beliefs.
5. The implications of the problem of the criterion extend to debates about realism versus anti-realism, particularly regarding how objective truths are established and whether they can be known.

Review Questions

• How does the problem of the criterion challenge our understanding of knowledge and belief?
  • The problem of the criterion challenges our understanding of knowledge by highlighting the difficulty in establishing criteria for what constitutes knowledge without assuming some prior understanding. This creates a circular dilemma where any attempt to define knowledge relies on having already identified what counts as knowledge. Consequently, this issue invites skepticism about whether we can ever fully justify our beliefs or claims to knowledge without falling into contradictions.
• Discuss the implications of the problem of the criterion for skepticism and its relation to justification.
  • The implications of the problem of the criterion for skepticism are profound, as it illustrates how our inability to establish firm criteria for knowledge leads to doubt about our justified beliefs. If we cannot define what qualifies as knowledge without presupposing some prior knowledge, then it becomes difficult to claim any belief is justified. This creates a fertile ground for skeptical arguments, which suggest that we might lack true knowledge entirely due to these unresolved issues surrounding justification and criteria.
• Evaluate how foundationalism and coherentism respond differently to the problem of the criterion in their quest for knowledge justification.
  • Foundationalism and coherentism offer contrasting responses to the problem of the criterion in their approaches to justifying knowledge. Foundationalism posits that certain basic beliefs exist independently and serve as a stable foundation for further knowledge, which allows it to circumvent some circularity by claiming that not all beliefs require justification. In contrast, coherentism argues that beliefs gain their justification through their coherence with one another within a larger system, thereby addressing the issue by emphasizing relationships between beliefs rather than seeking absolute foundations. These differing responses highlight significant philosophical debates about the nature of justification and our understanding of knowledge.

Related terms

Skepticism: A philosophical viewpoint that questions the possibility of certain or absolute knowledge.

Justification: The reasoning or rationale that supports beliefs or claims to knowledge, often related to evidence and criteria for validation.

Foundationalism: An epistemological theory asserting that knowledge is built upon a foundation of certain basic beliefs or truths that do not require further justification.