Non-basic beliefs

Definition

Non-basic beliefs are those beliefs that depend on other beliefs for their justification and are not self-evident or immediately evident. They stand in contrast to basic beliefs, which are justified independently and serve as foundational support for non-basic beliefs. Understanding how non-basic beliefs relate to justification and foundationalism is essential for grasping the structure of knowledge.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Non-basic beliefs require support from other beliefs or evidence, making them more complex in terms of justification compared to basic beliefs.
2. They can often be challenged or revised based on new evidence or changes in related beliefs, reflecting the dynamic nature of our understanding.
3. The relationship between non-basic and basic beliefs highlights the importance of having a robust foundation for one's belief system to avoid skepticism.
4. Non-basic beliefs can be influenced by cultural, social, and personal experiences, which affect how they are justified and accepted.
5. In discussions about knowledge, understanding non-basic beliefs helps clarify how individuals construct their belief systems and evaluate the truth of various claims.

Review Questions

• How do non-basic beliefs differ from basic beliefs in terms of justification?
  • Non-basic beliefs differ from basic beliefs primarily in their need for justification. While basic beliefs are self-evident or immediately evident and do not require support from other beliefs, non-basic beliefs rely on the justification provided by basic beliefs or other established non-basic beliefs. This dependency creates a hierarchy in our belief systems, where the strength and acceptance of non-basic beliefs hinge on the stability of their foundational counterparts.
• Discuss the implications of having a weak foundation of basic beliefs on non-basic beliefs.
  • A weak foundation of basic beliefs can significantly undermine non-basic beliefs. If the basic beliefs are not well-justified or are subject to doubt, then the non-basic beliefs that depend on them may also become questionable. This vulnerability can lead to a cascade effect where an entire belief system becomes shaky, prompting individuals to reassess their views and potentially adopt skepticism about knowledge claims that were previously accepted.
• Evaluate the role of cultural influences on the justification of non-basic beliefs in comparison to basic beliefs.
  • Cultural influences play a crucial role in shaping non-basic beliefs, often providing context and frameworks through which these beliefs are justified. Unlike basic beliefs, which may be more universally accepted as self-evident truths, non-basic beliefs can vary widely across different cultures and social groups. This divergence highlights how non-basic beliefs may be subject to more scrutiny and challenge based on differing cultural perspectives, ultimately affecting how individuals construct their understanding of knowledge and truth.

Related terms

Basic beliefs: Basic beliefs are foundational beliefs that do not require justification from other beliefs and are often considered self-evident or directly experienced.

Justification: Justification refers to the process or reasons that support a belief's validity, indicating why one should hold a particular belief as true.

Foundationalism:

Foundationalism is an epistemological theory asserting that knowledge is structured like a building, with basic beliefs serving as the foundation upon which non-basic beliefs rest.