more from Plato

Single Idea 2089

[catalogued under 13. Knowledge Criteria / A. Justification Problems / 1. Justification / b. Need for justification]

Full Idea

If you don't know which letters belong together in the right syllables…it is possible for true belief to be accompanied by a rational account and still not be entitled to the name of knowledge.

Gist of Idea

An inadequate rational account would still not justify knowledge

Source

Plato (Theaetetus [c.368 BCE], 208b)

Book Reference

Plato: 'Theaetetus', ed/tr. Waterfield,Robin [Penguin 1987], p.126


A Reaction

In each case of justification there is a 'clinching' stage, for which there is never going to be a strict rule. It might be foundational, but equally it might be massive coherence, or no alternative.