Locke Take Home Exam, Philosophy 471b, Spring 2006

Due in class Friday, March 10

Answer ONE of the following two questions, in about 1500 words.

1. Explain what Locke’s general definition of knowledge is (4.1.2). What are intuitive knowledge and demonstrative knowledge (4.2)? In your answer, show how these two degrees of knowledge are related, and how they fit Locke’s general definition of knowledge. What is sensitive knowledge (4.2.14, 4.11)? What problems does sensitive knowledge present for Locke’s definition of knowledge? Can they be overcome?

2. What is Locke’s account of demonstrative reasoning? (4.2.2-8)? What is Locke’s account of probable reasoning? How does it compare to demonstrative reasoning (4.14-17)? In your answer, draw on Locke’s distinction between knowledge and belief or opinion.