Single Idea 17944

[catalogued under 11. Knowledge Aims / A. Knowledge / 2. Understanding]

Full Idea

The Greek 'episteme' is usually translated as 'knowledge' but, I argue, closer to our notion of understanding.

Gist of Idea

'Episteme' is better translated as 'understanding' than as 'knowledge'

Source

Alexander Nehamas (Introduction to 'Virtues of Authenticity' [1999], p.xvi)

Book Reference

Nehamas,Alexander: 'Virtues of Authenticity' [Princeton 1999], p.-21


A Reaction

He agrees with Julia Annas on this. I take it to be crucial. See the first sentence of Aristotle's 'Metaphysics'. It is explanation which leads to understanding.

Related Idea

Idea 12038 Translate as 'humans all desire by nature to understand' (not as 'to know') [Aristotle, by Annas]