1. 1 Metaphysics & Epistemology Introduction to the Theory of Knowledge Topic 3 THE VALUE OF KNOWLEDGE Prof. Duncan Pritchard duncan.pritchard@ed.ac.uk

2. 2 The Meno Problem Given that the practical value of mere true belief appears to be exactly the same as the practical value of knowledge, why is knowledge more valuable than mere true belief?

3. 3 The Stability of Knowledge Perhaps the greater value of knowledge over mere true belief relates to the fact that a true belief which amounts to knowledge is more stable than a mere true belief

4. 4 The Swamping Problem The greater value of knowledge over true belief cannot be instrumental value, since that value will be ‘swamped’ by the value of true belief

5. 5 Two Further Value Problems The Secondary Value Problem Why is knowledge more valuable than that which falls short of knowledge? The Tertiary Value Problem Why is knowledge more valuable than that which falls short of knowledge as a matter of kind and not merely degree?

6. 6 Virtue Epistemology and the Value of Knowledge The Argument 1. Achievement = success that is because of ability. 2. Knowledge is a type of achievement. 3. Achievements are finally valuable. C. So, knowledge is finally valuable.

7. 7 Coda Is understanding the distinctively valuable epistemic state, rather than knowledge?