1 Types of knowledge and knowledge questions In every subject in the IB Diploma Programme curriculum we encounter knowledge claims, and these claims usually come with powerful support from a complex mix of tradition, authority, practice and educational reinforcement. But we should at least remember that claims to knowledge always come with these attributes, and before the modern era, similar claims were made in the name of what we now regard as discredited scientific worldviews, religious prejudices, superstitions, errors and lies.
The knowledge matrix So far we have looked at knowledge claims largely in terms of individual statements, but very few important knowledge claims arise in isolation; most are part of a complex web of ideas and claims about the world that we constantly cross-reference using a skilful set of tests and resources to see whether they are consistent with each other. Knowledge therefore consists of a matrix of concepts, facts and relations that we rely upon as a whole when assessing any individual claim we come across. Whether faced with a knowledge claim we need to ask questions such as: t For whom is this true? t On what grounds is it claimed to be true? t Does this knowledge claim cohere with or contradict knowledge claims that I already believe to be true? t To what extent does society rely on this claim being true? t To what extent can I rely on this claim being true? t What are the consequences of accepting this claim as true? t What difference does it make whether I regard it as certain or not? t What are the consequences I might face if I do not accept the truth of this claim?
knowledge matrix: a network of intersecting ideas, beliefs and facts within which new knowledge arises and develops
Real-life situation Three friends in Florida, USA, claimed to have seen an alien near a bridge around 11 p.m. on 21 March 2012. They claim the streetlights began to flicker strangely just before the alien came into view. The alien is said to have been over 2 metres tall with fluorescent eyes, and was seen dragging a large bag. One of the witnesses later sketched the alien.
r We would probably accept the eyewitness accounts of three people who claimed to have witnessed a crime, but many people may be reluctant to accept an eyewitness account of an encounter with an alien. Why? r Eyewitness accounts are based on sense perceptions and memory. How reliable are these ways of knowing? r Would it make a difference to your willingness to believe the story if one of the witnesses was your best friend or a family member? r What would it take to convince you that the alleged sighting was real?
When investigating any issue, always consider claims and counter-claims.
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