Single Idea 5431

[catalogued under 11. Knowledge Aims / A. Knowledge / 1. Knowledge]

Full Idea

'Knowledge' is not a precise conception: it merges into 'probable opinion', and so a very precise definition should not be sought.

Gist of Idea

Knowledge cannot be precisely defined, as it merges into 'probable opinion'

Source

Bertrand Russell (Problems of Philosophy [1912], Ch.13)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'The Problems of Philosophy' [OUP 1995], p.78


A Reaction

This announcement comes as a relief, after endless attempts (mainly by American academics) to give watertight, carefully worded definitions. It seems to me undeniable that what we will accept as knowledge is partly a matter of social negotiation.