what are epistemology?

Answer 1

The study of what is meant by "knowledge". What does it mean to "know" something as opposed to merely having an opinion. This issue has been at the core of Western philosophy since before Socrates, since, until it has been answered, all other questions become unsolvable.

Answer 2

Epistemology or theory of knowledge is the branch of Western philosophy that studies the nature and scope of knowledge and belief. The term "epistemology" is based on the Greek words "episteme" (knowledge) and "logos" (account/explanation); it is thought to have been coined by the Scottish philosopher James Frederick Ferrier. In Hindu and Buddhist philosophy, the Sanskrit term for the equivalent branch of study is "pramana."

Much of the debate in this field has focused on analyzing the nature of knowledge and how it relates to similar notions such as truth, belief, and justification. It also deals with the means of production of knowledge, as well as skepticism about different knowledge claims. In other words, epistemology primarily addresses the following questions: "What is knowledge?", "How is knowledge acquired?", and "What do people know?".

There are many different topics, stances, and arguments in the field of epistemology. Recent studies have dramatically challenged centuries-old assumptions, and the discipline therefore continues to be vibrant and dynamic.

Answer 3

Epistemology is the branch of philosophy that studies knowledge or belief.

Answer 4

Epistemology is the branch of philosophy that studies knowledge. It attempts to answer the basic question: what distinguishes true (adequate) knowledge from false (inadequate) knowledge

Answer 5

Basically, epistemology is the study of how people learn.

Answer 6

It's a branch of philosophy. If I'm not mistaken, it's the study of human knowledge.

Answer 7

The study of what is meant by "knowledge".

Answer 8

part of philosophy dealing with knowledge

Answer 9

read about it at
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epistemology