Epistemology

Epistemology Order Description Debate: Epistemology Question: Is objectivity the best way to know the truth about (material/physical) reality? Positions FOR Objectivity: Science (Rationalism + Empiricism + Skepticism) Historical materialism / Ideology Critique Positions AGAINST Objectivity: Existential Perspectivism (Subjectivity) Phenomenology (Inter-Subjectivity) Write a one page essay in which you argue FOR or AGAINST the claim that objectivity is the best way to know the truth about reality. ? Select one position for objectivity and one position against objectivity for this debate, e.g. Science vs. Perspectivism. ? State your thesis clearly, for example, “I argue objectivity, not subjectivity, is the best way to know the truth about reality. ? Briefly define “objectivity” and the oppositional position you select. ? Develop only one example to illustrate & argue for your position. State the example in the form of a truth claim, e.g. “It is true that humans are causing climate change.” ? Compare and contrast the two ways of getting at the truth about your example. ? Make an argument for your position based on the same example. ? Consider and refute your opposition’s best reply to your argument based on the same example. ? Make use of the arguments in the assigned texts. Advice on selecting an example: Select an example from a field/discipline about which you already know something. For example: If you are studying to become a teacher, the reality which you want to know the truth about is your students’ performance on assignments. Other Examples: Claims of truth concerning… ? Climate change, poverty, or other events/situations ? Medical or psychological diagnosis ? Use of drugs, alcohol or pharmaceuticals ? Frogs, or other animals ? A verdict, e.g. O.J. is innocent ? An artistic/literary masterpiece, e.g. Mona Lisa or Moby Dick ? Student success ? Best sports team ? “True Love” ? Or, be original… and come up with your own "