Final answer:
The phrase 'the end justifies the means' suggests that the outcome of an action can justify the methods used to achieve it, while 'the means justify the ends' implies that the moral legitimacy of an outcome depends on the ethical nature of the methods used.
In epistemology, justification provides reasons that support the truth of a belief, divided into internal and external theories.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Justification in Epistemology
When we say the end justifies the means, we are referring to a belief that the outcome of an action justifies the methods used to achieve it, regardless of whether those methods are ethical or not. This idea holds the outcome as the most important factor in determining moral correctness. On the other hand, saying the means justify the ends suggests that the process or methods used in achieving a goal are what ultimately lend moral legitimacy to the outcome, meaning the integrity of the actions themselves is considered paramount.
Relation to Theories of Justification
Justification in epistemology refers to the process of providing reasons to support or believe in a proposition's truth. This is divided into internal and external theories. Internal theories, such as coherentism and foundationalism, focus on the belief systems within an individual and their logical consistency or foundational beliefs. External theories concern how beliefs relate to the world outside the individual's own mental processes.
Justification is significant because it lends support to our beliefs, aiming to make them more likely to be true. When applied to moral questions or decisions, it can refer to whether the methods ('means') are justifiable by their consequences ('ends') or vice versa, with various philosophical standpoints providing different answers to these considerations.