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Set 1: Central Ideas (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: A

PASSAGE

The following text discusses Epistemology. Epistemology, the philosophical study of the nature, origin, and limits of human knowledge, grapples with the 'regress problem': if every belief must be justified by another belief, an infinite chain of justification seems inevitable unless one accepts foundational beliefs that require no further justification. Foundationalists argue for the existence of such basic beliefs, often grounded in sensory experience or self-evident reason, whereas coherentists contend that justification arises not from a linear chain but from the mutual support and logical consistency of a web of beliefs.

What is the primary distinction between foundationalists and coherentists regarding the justification of knowledge?

A. Foundationalists believe knowledge is impossible, while coherentists believe it is certain✓ Correct
B. Foundationalists rely on infinite regress, while coherentists rely on sensory experience
C. Foundationalists posit basic, self-justifying beliefs, while coherentists argue for a mutually supportive web of beliefs
D. Foundationalists prioritize logic, while coherentists prioritize emotion

Detailed Explanation

Choice C is correct. The text contrasts Foundationalists ('argument for... basic beliefs... grounded in sensory experience') with Coherentists ('justification arises... from the mutual support... of a web of beliefs').

Key Evidence:

• "Foundationalists argue for the existence of such basic beliefs"

• "coherentists contend that justification arises... from the mutual support"

Why others are wrong: A (Inaccurate representation of both views), B (Opposite (Foundationalists avoid infinite regress)), D (Not mentioned).

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