Externalism Theory

What is the main idea behind Externalist Theories of Justification?

• Beliefs can be justified by factors external to the individual's mental states or processes.

• Externalist Theories focus on subjective experiences for justification

• Beliefs are justified solely by internal mental states

• Justification is based on personal preferences rather than external factors

Answer explanation

Beliefs can be justified by factors external to the individual's mental states or processes.

Name one prominent philosopher associated with Externalist Theories of Justification.

• Alvin Goldman

• Immanuel Kant

• Rene Descartes

• John Locke

Answer explanation

Alvin Goldman is a prominent philosopher associated with Externalist Theories of Justification.

How do Externalist Theories differ from Internalist Theories?

• Externalist Theories focus on external factors, while Internalist Theories focus on internal factors.

• Externalist Theories focus on internal factors, while Internalist Theories focus on external factors.

• Externalist Theories are outdated compared to Internalist Theories.

• Externalist Theories and Internalist Theories are essentially the same.

Answer explanation

Externalist Theories focus on external factors, while Internalist Theories focus on internal factors.

Explain the concept of 'reliabilism' in the context of Externalist Theories of Justification.

• Reliabilism focuses on the subjective beliefs of an individual rather than the reliability of cognitive processes.

• Reliabilism in Externalist Theories of Justification emphasizes that a belief is justified if it is formed through reliable cognitive processes, irrespective of the individual's awareness of those processes.

• Reliabilism argues that justification is solely based on the emotional conviction of the individual, not cognitive reliability.

• Reliabilism asserts that a belief is justified if it aligns with societal norms, regardless of cognitive processes.

Answer explanation

Reliabilism in Externalist Theories of Justification emphasizes that a belief is justified if it is formed through reliable cognitive processes, irrespective of the individual's awareness of those processes.

Discuss one criticism of Externalist Theories of Justification.

• Externalist Theories of Justification are too simplistic in their approach.

• Externalist Theories of Justification do not consider individual perspectives.

• Externalist Theories of Justification are not grounded in empirical evidence.

• Externalist Theories of Justification can lead to skepticism due to heavy reliance on external factors.

Answer explanation

Externalist Theories of Justification can lead to skepticism due to heavy reliance on external factors.