Epistemological Circularity And Feelings
How
are epistemology and worldview related? A
person’s epistemological framework forms their
worldview and their worldview informs
their epistemological framework. They
are both connected, intertwined and create what is called, “circularity.” The
epistemological framework informs the individual what they need to consider as appropriate
knowledge and the worldview identifies what is and what does not fit the
criteria of true knowledge. In other
words, the knowledge system forms the lens and the lens processes and delivers
knowledge back to the system. Around and
around they go, working together.[1]
A
person’s epistemological framework lies at the foundation of the person,
followed by a person’s worldview. As
previously stated, they form and inform each other in a circular
fashion. Besides the circular
relationship, manifested feelings and values emerge from the person’s
worldview. Therefore, what we see
visibly on the surface is a person’s behavior patterns, values and feelings
that are shaped from their worldview, a worldview that is shaped by one’s
epistemological system. The reason why
this is important to understand is that behind a person’s feelings and
behaviors always lies another two layers.[2]
To read more on this subject, check out the paper titled, "Pastoral Care For Those Experiencing An Epistemological Crisis."
Comments