What do we know?

• What have you found challenging about this topic in philosophy?

The most challenging thing about the topic of knowledge is my mind is composed with assumptions. We are all accustomed to believe the veil of perception which may be deceiving as well. I find myself doubting every task daily such as how do I know if I am alive right now or how do I know if my assumptions are accurate. This topic does have me confused about different things in life because we can trust and be certain of some things in life but not all.  The topic of philosophy allows me to think differently about things morally, spiritually and mentally.

• What have you enjoyed (if anything) about studying this topic in philosophy?

With the topic of knowledge, I have become curious to know where knowledge has come from. I agree with Hume about knowledge comes from experience, but I did not know it came with limitations. Also, I believe everything in life happens for a reason; therefore reason and evidence may be where knowledge comes from. However, a philosopher may say where does evidence comes from? Therefore, this makes me wonder and have a desire to figure out some of these philosophers’ reasoning.  I enjoyed that this topic makes me think beyond the horizon instead of going with the same mundane thinking of life. I agree with Descartes’s perspective of God because I do believe God is perfect and he does control everything that happens in our lives.

• What things in your daily experience have you noticed that you might not have prior to studying this topic in philosophy?

I noticed that I question and doubt my actions. I began to think in my mind what Descartes and Hume would say if they were present today. Also, I assumed many times in the past about different things, but since we began this class, I make assumptions about every minute thing.

• What things have you learned about yourself that you might not have prior to studying this topic in philosophy?

 I became more aware of my senses and assumptions. I learned that I can trust things which are certain. I use to trust my senses for every situation, but Descartes made me realize that my senses can be deceiving which it has during this week through the weather. For an example, the weather outside perceived to be rainy and cold, therefore, I dressed for these conditions. However, I went home and changed my outfit because it was hot and humid, but cloudy.

• Which thinking disposition did you find that you needed to use or feel that you should have used better during this section? What would it have helped you do? 

I feel that I should have used Inquisitiveness. With me being curious, I want to know if my assumptions are accurate or the real reason of knowledge. It would have helped me to think and to seek the truth of the philosophers’ perspectives.