Definition:

Gnosology is a branch of philosophy that deals with the theory of knowledge. It focuses on the nature, origins, and limits of knowledge, as well as the study of how knowledge is acquired, organized, and justified.

Subtopics:

  • Epistemology: This branch of gnosology explores the nature of knowledge, including its scope, sources, and conditions for being justified.
  • Rationalism: It investigates the theory that knowledge is primarily gained through reason and logical deduction.
  • Empiricism: This subtopic examines the theory that knowledge is derived from sensory experiences and observations.
  • Skepticism: It addresses the philosophical position that genuine knowledge is uncertain, and thus, skepticism questions our ability to have knowledge at all.
  • Foundationalism: This area of study focuses on the belief that knowledge rests upon foundational principles or basic beliefs that are self-evident or incorrigible.
  • Coherentism: It investigates the theory that knowledge is a coherent system of beliefs, and justification is achieved through the internal consistency of these beliefs.
  • Reliabilism: This subfield explores the view that knowledge is justified true belief that is acquired through reliable cognitive processes.
  • Pragmatism: It examines the belief that knowledge should be evaluated in terms of its practical consequences and utility.