Meaning & Definition of word "Epistemology"
Epistemology
/ɪˌpɪstəˈmɒlədʒi/
noun:
- 1. The branch of philosophy concerned with the nature, sources, and limits of knowledge.
- Example: Epistemology examines the justification of belief and the nature of knowledge itself.
- 2. The study of knowledge and justified belief as a philosophical discipline.
- Example: In her studies, she focused on the epistemology of science and how scientific knowledge is validated.
- 3. The critical study of the methods and grounds of knowledge in any area of inquiry.
- Example: The seminar explored the epistemology of social sciences and the assumptions that underpin research methods.
Etymology
●Originates from the Greek word 'epistēmē', meaning 'knowledge', and 'logos', meaning 'study' or 'science'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
question of knowledge:
A debate regarding what is known and how it is known.
limitations of knowledge:
The boundaries and constraints that affect what can be known.
Related Words
ontology:
The branch of metaphysics dealing with the nature of being.
axiology:
The study of values and value judgments.
logics:
The study of reasoning and argument.
Slang Meanings of epistemology
Meaning: Knowing stuff
● Example Sentence: In our discussion group, we often joke about 'epistemology' as just 'knowing stuff'.