Single Idea 12898

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

Full Idea

I don't agree that the mark of knowledge is justification, first because justification isn't sufficient - your true opinion that you will lose the lottery isn't knowledge, whatever the odds; and also not necessary - for what supports perception or memory?

Gist of Idea

Justification is neither sufficient nor necessary for knowledge

Source

David Lewis (Elusive Knowledge [1996])

Book Reference

Lewis,David: 'Papers in Metaphysics and Epistemology' [CUP 1999], p.421


A Reaction

I don't think I agree. The point about the lottery is that an overwhelming reason will never get you to knowing that you won't win. But good reasons are coherent, not statistical. If perceptions are dubious, justification must be available.