Truth: The Basics

Truth: The Basics provides a concise and engaging introduction to philosophical theories about the nature of truth, exploring five important answers (correspondence, semantic, verifiability, transparency, and plurality) and addressing objections to each. It is an ideal starting point for anyone seeking a lively and accessible introduction to the study of truth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 04 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Truth: The Basics is a comprehensive and captivating exploration of philosophical theories concerning the essence of truth. Authored by two esteemed philosophers who are experts in this field, the book revolves around a central question: What, if anything, is common to all truths, rendering them true? The book delves into five significant answers (theories) to this question, each of which is examined in detail.

The first theory, correspondence, asserts that truths correspond to the external world. It posits that for a statement to be true, it must match the reality it purports to describe. The second theory, semantic, emphasizes the role of meaning in truth. It suggests that truths are determined by the meanings assigned to words and sentences. The third theory, verifiability, emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence in determining truth. It asserts that truths can be verified through scientific experiments and observations. The fourth theory, transparency, emphasizes the idea that truths are accessible to the senses and can be perceived by the mind. The fifth theory, plurality, suggests that there are multiple truths, each valid in its own context.

Each theory is explored in depth, with questions addressed regarding its answer to the central question, the underlying motivation behind that answer, a precise argument supporting it, the main objections to it, and recommended resources for further understanding. Additionally, an additional chapter provides an extensive introduction to the notorious liar paradox, a thought-provoking puzzle that challenges the concept of truth.

Truth: The Basics serves as an excellent introduction to the philosophical study of truth for individuals who are seeking a lively and accessible approach. Written in a clear and concise manner, the book effectively explains five major theories of truth, making them accessible to undergraduate students and general readers alike. It prepares the reader to delve into more advanced work in truth studies and also makes connections between truth and other areas of philosophy, such as the philosophy of language, semantics, metaphysics, logic, and epistemology.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the subject, technical appendices are included, providing additional insights and references. In conclusion, Truth: The Basics is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of philosophical theories about truth. Whether you are a student, scholar, or simply curious about the nature of truth, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the subject.

Weight: 202g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032039879