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Unit 2 Epistemology–How can we know (for sure)?
In this unit we discussed various epistemological theories and their implication on the
philosophy of science. Historically, there are two main positions when it comes to
epistemology: Rationalism and Empiricism. Both make important claims, but both positions
also have problems. For instance, rationalism assumes that we all possess certain innate
ideas that ground human knowledge, but this appears false since different people have different
ideas about things like God, self, causation, etc. Also, Descartes’ attempts at finding knowledge
that is certain leads to the significant problem of global skepticism.
On the other hand, empiricism says that sensory impressions ground knowledge but this position
runs into the skeptical conclusions identified by David Hume. Hume, as we have studied, has
some powerful skeptical arguments against the concept of causation and the idea knowledge
future events. Furthermore, there is the role of science and its methods in establishing what we
can know-still taking into consideration the problem of induction. Given your understanding of
of the concepts in this unit please answer the following:
Question: What role does skepticism play in obtaining knowledge? Is being “skeptical”, or
starting from the “skeptical position” necessary to arrive at true knowledge? Lastly, how
seriously should we take the problem of induction? Does the problem “really” limit what we
can know, i.e. Is certainty necessary for something to count as knowledge?
In answering this question, be sure to spell out your position and address any problems or
objections your position might encounter. For instance, what implications might your
conclusions have upon the nature and methods of science?
Task:
1) Consider the problem of skepticism in assessing the possibility of knowledge. Is skepticism
necessary to eliminate potential mistakes in belief?
2) Use the following checkpoints to guide the structure of your essay:
a. Discuss how rationalists (Descartes) and empiricists (Hume) assess the possibility of
knowledge.
b. Discuss the problem of skepticism (both global and local).
c. Fully explain your position regarding the role of skepticism in assessing the
possibility of knowledge.
3) Use the terminology and definitions used in your study of the unit.
Criteria for Success:
Criteria for Success: A superior essay will introduce and define the two epistemological
approaches to knowledge. It will also discuss the challenge posed by skepticism and its
conclusions. Lastly, it will elaborate on a conclusion regarding the role skepticism should play in
our assessment of knowledge and belief. The essay should use standard writing conventions, be
double-spaced, and be 2-5 pages in length.
Unit 2 Essay Rubric
Criteria
Excellent
(25-22 points)
Good
(21-19 points)
Developing
(19-1
points)
Unacceptable
(0 points)
Understanding
and
Explanation
Essay shows a deep
understanding of
the relevant
epistemological
question of
skepticism. Also
shows a deep
understanding of
the proposed
theories as
solutions to the
problem.
Essay exhibits an
in-depth analysis
and assessment of
the arguments.
Strengths and
weaknesses of the
argument are
discussed in detail
and include all key
ideas.
Conclusions are
strongly supported
with philosophical
reasoning and
argumentation.
Essay shows a
partial
understanding
of the relevant
epistemological
question of
skepticism. Also
shows partial
understanding
of the proposed
theories as
solutions to the
problem.
Essay exhibits a
shallow or short
analysis of the
arguments.
Assessment of
the arguments
is minimal.
Essay shows no
understanding of
either the question
or the proposed
theories
Analysis and
Assessment
Essay shows a
general
understanding of
the relevant
epistemological
question of
skepticism. Also
shows a general
understanding of
the proposed
theories as
solutions to the
problem.
Essay exhibits a
general analysis of
the arguments.
Assessment of the
arguments may be
lacking some depth
and detail, or omit
key ideas.
Conclusions are
generally supported
with reasoning and
argumentation, but
some supporting
arguments points
may be left out.
Conclusions are
offered some
support, but
support may be
weak or it may
not connect
logically to the
conclusion.
Major
supporting
arguments may
be left out.
Conclusions are
offered with no
support.
Philosophical
Reasoning
Essay exhibits no
analysis of the
arguments.
Points
Language Use
and
Organization
Writing is clear,
concise, and well
organized with
excellent
sentence/paragraph
construction.
Thoughts are
expressed in a
coherent and logical
manner. Few, if any
spelling, grammar,
and syntax errors
are present.
Writing is mostly
clear, concise, and
well organized with
good
sentence/paragraph
construction.
Thoughts are
expressed in a
coherent and logical
manner. A few
spelling, grammar,
and syntax errors
may be present.
Writing is
unclear and/or
disorganized.
Thoughts are
not expressed in
a logical
manner. More
than 5 spelling,
grammar, and
syntax errors
are present.
Writing is unclear
and disorganized.
Thoughts ramble
and make little
sense. There are
numerous spelling,
grammar, or
syntax errors
throughout the
response.
Final Score
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