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"The prefatory explanations which I wish to make with respect to the aims and the conclusions of this book are so few and obvious that they may be very briefly dispatched. The problem which it attempts, and the method which it employs, are stated at some length in the first chapter. Its main conclusions--the "Theory of Reality " it advocates--are reiterated and enforced in connection with the critical discussion of each topic; they are given synthetic treatment and summarized in the concluding portions of the book. The faithfulness of its appeal to recognized facts and to the positive sciences has been emphasized by the frequency with which the conceptions and phrases defining mans "cognitive experience" are employed. The doctrine of knowledge, which was elaborated in the earlier book, is assumed and trusted throughout in the discussions of this book. And, on the other hand, the theory of reality which was discovered in germinal form by the earlier book is the conclusion elaborated into a system of metaphysics by the studies which this book contains"--Preface. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved).

Knowledge, Theory of. --- Knowledge, Theory of

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"It is the plan of this investigation to give first a definition of knowledge. The methods will then be considered by which men have thought it possible to attain knowledge of the self on the one hand, and the not-self on the other. Those who have not begun to reflect believe that they get truth in the data of the senses. This view will be criticised, and at the same time an estimate will be made of the contribution which sensation offers to truth. The common view of philosophers and scientists, that truth is given in general concepts, or universals, or categories, will next be taken up. The special form of the doctrine given in empiricism will also be considered. It is a doctrine that is found wanting in all its forms. At the same time it will be pointed out that the concept has its uses in the mental economy. The true method of knowledge will then be expounded. The method of knowing the not-self will be first investigated; and it will be shown that this knowledge is gained by sympathetic imitation. But as this method involves the use, to a greater or less extent, of the other methods, emphasis will be laid on what is called the "synthesis of the methods." After this discussion of the conditions under which knowledge of other things is possible, it will be a relatively short task to determine wherein self-knowledge consists. In conclusion, the bearing of this theory on the philosophical problem, and also on certain practical questions, will be indicated"--Introduction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved).

Knowledge, Theory of.