Final answer:
Abstract knowledge refers to broad, conceptual understanding that shapes worldviews, while local knowledge is practical and context-specific, often tied to personal experiences. Philosophical skepticism underlines the questioning of knowledge acquisition in both domains, suggesting our understanding may be limited, but this doesn't negate the existence of truths within each knowledge area. The Mohists prioritized the practical over conceptual, whereas Kant saw knowledge as limited to empirical experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Discussing the concept of abstract knowledge versus local knowledge as described by Scott involves understanding a fundamental division within types of knowledge. Abstract knowledge encompasses broad concepts that are not directly experienced but inform our understanding and judgment of objects or situations. This includes deep principles like justice, freedom, and democracy that, while not physically experienced, shape our societal framework and individual worldviews.
Local knowledge, on the other hand, is more specific and grounded in experience. It refers to knowledge that is highly contextual, often related to a particular location or community, and may vary between different cultures or social settings. Personal and practical knowledge falls under this category, like understanding local traditions or technical skills.
Through this lens, skepticism in philosophy particularly highlights local skepticism, which questions our ability to have certain knowledge in specific domains, such as moral knowledge or religious belief. Skeptics of this kind do not assert the nonexistence of entities like God or moral truths but rather the insufficiency of justification for believing in them.
Philosophical skepticism requires us to understand that the quest for knowledge might lead us to different kinds of truths, each valuable within its own context. The Mohists from ancient Chinese philosophy valued practical knowledge, emphasizing the ability to correctly distinguish and identify objects over understanding their conceptual nature. In contrast, Kant emphasized that our knowledge is essentially limited to empirical observations, rejecting the notion of knowledge that transcends sensory experience.
In the classroom, concepts play a significant role in shaping our understanding of subjects like history, informing our thoughts on broader themes like democracy and power. These thematic concepts are abstract but necessary for building a comprehensive worldview, different from the procedural knowledge required for tasks such as riding a bicycle.
To encourage the development of a balanced and objective perspective, one must learn to abstract from specific circumstances. This involves using imagination to step away from subjective biases and consider broader, more general concepts that can be applied universally, beyond personal or local experiences. Upgrading our perspective in this manner can further refine our understanding of various paradigms—from scientific theories to philosophical ideologies.