Explaining Understanding

This book explores the nature of understanding, its relationship with knowledge, and the role of explanations, making it essential for those interested in epistemology.

What does it mean to truly grasp a concept or idea? This question, along with others regarding the types of understanding and their relationship with knowledge, has sparked significant interest in the field of epistemology. In Explaining Understanding, various scholars delve into these complex inquiries, exploring whether understanding is always accompanied by explanations and how these elements interconnect. Despite the depth of these discussions, insights from the philosophy of science regarding explanations and theories have often been overlooked in epistemological debates.

Conversely, philosophers of science have engaged in extensive dialogue about the nature of explanations and theories, frequently neglecting the concept of understanding as merely a psychological phenomenon. Explaining Understanding seeks to bridge this gap by bringing together epistemologists and philosophers of science to address fundamental questions about understanding. The book presents a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, highlighting key issues such as cognitive bias, transparency, and the coherence of theories.

With 15 original chapters, Explaining Understanding is an essential resource for researchers and graduate students alike. It provides valuable insights into the ongoing debates surrounding the nature of understanding, offering a fresh perspective on how we comprehend and interpret information in both philosophical and scientific contexts.