Single Idea 23286

[catalogued under 3. Truth / A. Truth Problems / 3. Value of Truth]

Full Idea

Since it is neither visible as a target, nor recognisable when achieved, there is no point in calling truth a goal. We should only aim at increasing confidence in our beliefs, by collecting further evidence or checking our calculations.

Gist of Idea

Truth can't be a goal, because we can neither recognise it nor confim it

Source

Donald Davidson (Truth Rehabilitated [1997], P.6)

Book Reference

Davidson,Donald: 'Truth, Language and History' [OUP 2005], p.6


A Reaction

This is mainly aimed at pragmatists, but Davidson obviously subscribes (as do I) to their fallibilist view of knowledge.