Question

Compare the skeptic versus the particularist position on the following items:

1. burden of proof
2. knowledge
3. "you might be wrong"
4. dealing with the skeptic
5. two tasks of epistemology
6. the particularist's use of "the right to be sure"

Answer 1

The skeptic and particularist positions differ in their views on the burden of proof, knowledge, 'you might be wrong', dealing with the skeptic, two tasks of epistemology, and the particularist's use of 'the right to be sure'.

Step-by-step explanation:

When comparing the skeptic versus the particularist position, there are differences in their views on the burden of proof, knowledge, 'you might be wrong', dealing with the skeptic, two tasks of epistemology, and the particularist's use of 'the right to be sure'.

1. The skeptic position places the burden of proof on the person making the knowledge claim, while the particularist position may place the burden of proof on the skeptic themselves.
2. The skeptic position questions the possibility of knowledge, while the particularist position acknowledges that knowledge is achievable in specific domains.
3. In the skeptic position, there is an emphasis on the idea that 'you might be wrong,' highlighting the fallibility of knowledge. The particularist may acknowledge the potential for being wrong, but places a greater emphasis on the confidence one can have in their justified beliefs.
4. Dealing with the skeptic involves engaging in philosophical arguments and providing counterarguments to refute their skepticism. The particularist may focus on providing evidence and justifications for their beliefs to convince the skeptic.
5. The two tasks of epistemology, as discussed in the reference material, are understanding the nature and possibility of knowledge, and formulating possible answers to address potential problems with those answers. Both the skeptic and particularist may engage in these tasks, but their approaches and conclusions may differ.
6. The particularist's use of 'the right to be sure' suggests that they believe individuals have the right to hold justified beliefs that they are confident in, even if there is a potential for being wrong. The skeptic may argue that certainty is unattainable and that individuals should not hold unwarranted confidence in their beliefs.