Understanding Perspective and Knowledge: The Role of Epistemology in Truth and Belief

Written by Daniel John Dunevant on March 14, 2025, 11:55 am

Understanding Perspective and Knowledge

In an article I wrote about perspective, I discussed the importance of approaching conversations with grace and openness, especially when engaging with those who think differently. A common misconception is that if someone once shared your views but has since changed, you are now intellectually superior. This mindset closes the door to learning and growth. However, it’s possible to remain confident in your understanding of certain truths while remaining open to new ideas. This is where epistemology — the study of knowledge — comes into play. It explores how we come to know something and what qualifies as true knowledge.

The Foundation of Knowledge

At Deep Thinkers, understanding the nature of knowledge has been one of the most fundamental areas of exploration. With so many differing perspectives presented in meetings and discussions, it’s clear that not all of them can be true simultaneously. This raises a crucial question: How do we determine which beliefs are true?

The answer lies in declarative knowledge, which has three essential criteria:

1. Belief – A belief is subjective, influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.
2. Truth – A belief must align with reality for it to be considered true.
3. Justification – There must be reasonable evidence or information to support the belief.

The Problem with Unsupported Beliefs

Many people form their beliefs based on emotions rather than evidence. They create theories about how things work, and if new information fits within that framework, it is accepted as true — otherwise, it’s rejected. However, even if a person holds a belief that happens to be true, without proper justification, it remains fragile. Without supporting evidence, such beliefs are vulnerable to change, shifting with the next piece of information like a tree without roots blown by the wind.

The Importance of Justification in Debate

Justification is crucial for meaningful dialogue and learning. Engaging in debates without justified beliefs grounded in reality is often unproductive. Without a foundation of evidence, there’s no stable ground for understanding different perspectives. For a belief to be truly justified, it should meet certain standards:

1. Can it be observed? – Direct observation helps confirm whether a belief aligns with reality.
2. Can it and has it been measured? – Measurable data provides credibility and supports consistency.
3. Has the belief been validated through observation and measurement? – A belief must stand up to scrutiny and evidence.

Conclusion

Understanding how we know what we know is essential for productive conversations and personal growth. By ensuring that our beliefs are not only true but also justified, we create a solid foundation for meaningful discussions. True knowledge requires more than just belief — it requires evidence and reasoning. When we approach conversations with both confidence and openness, we foster an environment where learning and deeper understanding can thrive.