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Epistemic Reliability: The Infinite Regress Argument

Description: Epistemic Reliability: The Infinite Regress Argument
Number of Questions: 5
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Tags: epistemology epistemic reliability infinite regress
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What is the main premise of the infinite regress argument against epistemic reliability?

  1. All knowledge claims require justification.

  2. All justifications require further justification.

  3. There is no ultimate foundation for knowledge.

  4. Knowledge is impossible.


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The infinite regress argument begins with the premise that all knowledge claims require justification. This means that we cannot simply accept a knowledge claim as true without providing some reason or evidence to support it.

What is the conclusion of the infinite regress argument?

  1. All knowledge claims are unreliable.

  2. There is no such thing as certain knowledge.

  3. Knowledge is impossible.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The infinite regress argument leads to the conclusion that all knowledge claims are unreliable, there is no such thing as certain knowledge, and knowledge is impossible.

What is one objection to the infinite regress argument?

  1. The argument relies on a false dichotomy.

  2. The argument is self-referential.

  3. The argument begs the question.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

One objection to the infinite regress argument is that it relies on a false dichotomy between justified and unjustified beliefs. Another objection is that the argument is self-referential, meaning that it uses the same principle that it is trying to undermine. Finally, the argument begs the question by assuming that there is no ultimate foundation for knowledge.

Which philosopher is most closely associated with the infinite regress argument?

  1. Plato

  2. Aristotle

  3. Descartes

  4. Hume


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The infinite regress argument is most closely associated with the Scottish philosopher David Hume. Hume argued that all knowledge claims are ultimately based on sense experience, and that sense experience is unreliable. This led him to conclude that there is no such thing as certain knowledge.

What is the significance of the infinite regress argument for epistemology?

  1. It shows that all knowledge claims are unreliable.

  2. It undermines the foundations of traditional epistemology.

  3. It leads to skepticism about the possibility of knowledge.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The infinite regress argument has had a profound impact on epistemology. It has shown that all knowledge claims are ultimately unreliable, undermined the foundations of traditional epistemology, and led to skepticism about the possibility of knowledge.

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