The Dissenter

#1193 Jennifer Nagel: Epistemic Intuitions, Knowledge, and Common Knowledge

Dec 25, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jennifer Nagel, a philosopher from the University of Toronto, delves into the intricacies of epistemic intuitions and knowledge. She defines epistemic intuitions and explains their role in philosophical discourse, referencing both Western and South Asian traditions. Nagel contrasts philosophical and psychological perspectives on knowledge, discussing how common knowledge is formed in conversations. She also highlights the significance of reflection in understanding knowledge and encourages integrating empirical science with philosophy to enhance our grasp of these concepts.
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INSIGHT

Intuitions Guide Everyday Knowledge Judgments

  • Epistemic intuitions are spontaneous impressions about whether someone knows something.
  • Jennifer Nagel emphasizes these impressions shape everyday interaction and coordination.
ANECDOTE

Classic Thought Experiments On Knowledge

  • Jennifer Nagel recounts Plato's jury and Dharmottara's smoke example as contrasting cases.
  • These historical examples show intuitions that true belief can fall short of knowledge.
INSIGHT

Not All Intuitions Are Reliable

  • Some intuitions are like perceptual illusions and may mislead philosophical theory.
  • Nagel suggests philosophers should treat some intuition data points with caution.
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