Coherentism

Coherentists argue that knowledge arises from relations of coherence or mutual support, while Cartesianism claims it rests on indubitable facts. The probabilistic turn challenges this, demonstrating that coherence fails to be conducive to truth. This Element reassesses the debate about coherence from the standpoint of Rudolf Carnap's methodology of explication, defending one of the early coherence measures.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The most fundamental question in epistemology revolves around the foundations of our knowledge of the world. The traditional Cartesian answer posits that knowledge rests upon indubitable facts derived through rational insight or introspection. However, coherentists challenge this notion by asserting that knowledge emerges from relations of coherence or mutual support. According to coherentists, if our beliefs cohere, we can be confident that they are largely true.

In the first part of this Element, we delve into the core concepts and challenges of coherentism. We explore the probabilistic turn, which has led to recent demonstrations that coherence does not necessarily ensure truth. We then reassess the ongoing debate about the proper definition of coherence from the perspective of Rudolf Carnap's methodology of explication. The result is a tentative and qualified defense of one of the early coherence measures.

While coherentism offers a promising approach to understanding knowledge, it is important to note that further exploration and refinement are necessary to fully understand its implications and limitations. Epistemologists continue to engage in lively discussions and debates to refine our understanding of knowledge and its foundations.

Weight: 136g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009055123