Theory of justification
Introduction
The theory of justification is a part of the field of epistemology that attempts to understand the justification of propositions and beliefs. Epistemologists are concerned with various epistemic features of belief, which include the ideas of justification, warrant, rationality, and probability. Of these four terms, the term that has been most widely used and discussed by contemporary epistemologists is justification.
Justification and Knowledge
Justification is a key component of knowledge. In fact, the classical tripartite analysis of knowledge defines knowledge as justified true belief, though this definition is not universally accepted. The connection between knowledge and justification is that for a belief to count as knowledge, it must be both true and justified. A belief is said to be justified when it is formed in a manner fitting to the subject matter.
Types of Justification
There are two primary types of justification: internal and external.
Internal Justification
Internal justification, often associated with internalism, asserts that to be justified in believing a proposition, one must have some conscious awareness or understanding of the reasons for the belief. Internalists argue that all the components necessary for justification are present in one's conscious mind.
External Justification
External justification, often associated with reliabilism, contends that justification depends on the reliability of the process that led to the belief, regardless of the believer's awareness of it. Externalists argue that justification can occur through processes the believer is not aware of, as long as the processes are reliable.
Theories of Justification
There are several theories of justification including foundationalism, coherentism, infinitism, and foundherentism.
Foundationalism
Foundationalism posits that certain "foundational" beliefs justify other, non-foundational beliefs. These foundational beliefs are self-justifying and do not rely on justification from other beliefs.
Coherentism
Coherentism, on the other hand, suggests that a belief is justified if it coheres (fits together) with all the other beliefs in a belief system. In this view, no belief is foundational or basic.
Infinitism
Infinitism proposes that beliefs are justified by an infinite chain of reasons. This theory challenges the foundationalist's claim that justification must come to an end with self-justifying beliefs.
Foundherentism
Foundherentism, a theory proposed by Susan Haack, is a hybrid of foundationalism and coherentism. It suggests that all beliefs are justified by being part of a coherent system, and some beliefs in the system are also foundational.
Criticisms and Challenges
The theory of justification has faced several criticisms and challenges. The most notable of these is the Gettier problem, which questions the sufficiency of justification for knowledge. Other challenges include the Münchhausen trilemma, which argues that any attempt to provide justification will ultimately lead to an infinite regress, a circular argument, or an unproven premise.
Conclusion
The theory of justification is a complex and vital aspect of epistemology. It attempts to understand how beliefs can be justified and what role justification plays in the acquisition of knowledge. Despite various criticisms and challenges, the theory continues to be a central topic in the study of knowledge and belief.