How Do We Know

What does it mean to know something? Can we have confidence in our knowledge? Epistemology, the study of knowledge, can often seem like a daunting subject. And yet few topics are more basic to human life. We are inquisitive creatures by nature, and the unending quest for truth leads us to raise difficult questions about the quest itself. What are the conditions, sources, and limits of our knowledge? Do our beliefs need to be rationally justified? Can we have certainty? In this primer on epistemology, James Dew and Mark Foreman guide readers through this discipline in philosophy. This second edition has been expanded with new material and now serves as the first volume in IVP's Questions in Christian Philosophy series. By asking basic questions and using clear, jargon-free language, they provide an entry into one of the most important issues in contemporary philosophy. The Questions in Christian Philosophy Series features introductory textbooks that offer students a Christian perspective on the various branches of philosophy, enabling them as they seek to understand all facets of life including existence, knowledge, ethics, art, and more.

What is knowledge? How is it acquired? How are claims to knowledge to be validated? Can man achieve rational certainty, or is he doomed to perpetual doubt? How We Know presents an integrated set of answers to these and related questions, based on Ayn Rand's Objectivist philosophy, including her unique theory of concepts. Rejecting the false alternative of mysticism vs. skepticism, Harry Binswanger provides an uncompromising defense of reason, logic, and objectivity. Using vivid examples, he traces the hierarchical development of knowledge, from its base in sensory perception, to concept-formation, to logical inference, to its culmination in the principles of science and philosophy. How We Know explains how following methods of cognition based on the facts of reality and on the nature of our cognitive equipment makes it possible to achieve rational certainty, no matter how abstract the issue.

The challenging uncertainties in your mind, or in the mind of someone you know, are worth taking the time to explore. In 6 engaging sessions this guide deals with some of the controversies commonly asked about Christianity. This study will lead you to conclude that the Christian faith can stand up to any challenge.

Boost your students′ 21st century skills How do we measure students′ inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities so that we know they are prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st century? John Barell explains how inquiry leads to problem-solving and provides specific steps for pre, formative and summative assessment that informs instruction of 21st century skills. Included are examples that show how to use today′s technology in the classroom and how to use inquiry to develop and assess students′ ability to: Think critically and creatively Collaborate with others Become self-directed learners Adapt and become resourceful Develop a sense of leadership, responsibility, and global awareness The authors challenge teachers to reflect on their own learning, thinking, and problem-solving processes as well as those of their students. The text provides frameworks for monitoring students′ progress and guidelines for communicating with parents. Teachers will find examples from all grade levels that show how to observe and assess students′ growth in their development of 21st century capacities, making this a timely and valuable resource.

"A memoir of a ten-year period that began when a profound religious reawakening interrupted decades of atheism and hard-living. The unexpected challenge of maintaining his faith over the long haul brings Wakefield to the realization that spirituality is not static and that each day holds the promise of renewal"--Provided by publisher.

Our understanding of the human brain has come a long way since the days of out ancestors, but we still lack a complete knowledge of how the mind works. This thought-provoking text travels the paths taken in out quest to decipher the brain and its processes, a quest that continues today.

Today there are untold voices in print, on television, and online calling for our attention, and so many of these mock or belittle our faith. From coworkers to those calling themselves Christians, the tone has become one of reproach, disparaging the character of God and undermining the authority of the Bible. For those who have a heart for God, it can be intimidating and discouraging. How Do We Know the Bible is True? is based on the absolute authority of God’s Word, not man-centered explanations. Clearly presented, it will help bring clarity in a world filled with increasingly vague notions of truth. Over 20 relevant issues are discussed including: Is the Bible totally without error? Did the resurrection really happen? How do we know that the 66 books of the Bible are from God? Does the Bible contradict itself? How were people saved before Jesus came? What is the purpose and meaning of life? Did miracles really happen? Was Genesis derived from ancient myths? How should we interpret the Bible; should Genesis be literal? Do you have to believe in a young earth to be saved? Within these pages you will find responses to those honest questions of faith, helping to build a confidence in God’s Word and inspiring your daily walk in His grace and peace. These powerful biblical insights are soundly presented by more than a dozen respected defenders of the faith, including Ken Ham, John MacArthur, Terry Mortenson, Jason Lisle, Brian Edwards, Tommy Mitchell, Jobe Martin, Georgia Purdom, Bodie Hodge, and Roger Patterson.

Explains what energy is, how it is used, and the scientists who studied it.