A problem of defining knowledge in contemporary philosophy

Abstract

Epistemology is a central branch of philosophy that examines the nature, sources and limits of knowledge. This study aims to address contemporary epistemological issues that hinder defining knowledge by tracing the historical path of the classical definition and analyzing the criticisms raised by Gettier.

It presents the most important alternatives offered by modern epistemological theories such as causal, reliabilist and virtue epistemology.The classical definition of knowledge as justified true belief collapsed after Gettier’s objections, and modern approaches suggested multiple substitutes that link knowledge to reliable cognitive processes, appropriate environmental conditions and the relation between belief and reality.

These theories highlighted the role of the knowing subject and showed that defining knowledge is an open and complex problem not settled by ancient or contemporary philosophy.The study concludes that a comprehensive theoretical framework is needed to connect classical and contemporary views and to integrate the moral dimension of knowledge by emphasizing the responsibility of the knower and the importance of methodological and philosophical rigor.