The Development of Epistemological Theories

Following is a quote from a paper in the Review of Eucational Research which discusses stages of development of a students intellectual and ethical development from less sophisticated to more mature. (Most students don't use the term epistemology on a daily basis, but they have a world view, and if they are lucky, it is growing.)

Perry's sceme of intellectual and ethical development postulates an ongoing, qualitative reorganization of the making of meaning.

Dualism

Positions 1 and 2 are characterized by a dualistic, absolutist, right-and-wrong view of the world. Authorities are expected to know the truth and to convey it to the learner.

Multiplicity

Position 3 represents a modification of dualism, with the beginning of the recognition of diversity and uncertainty. Authorities who disagree haven't yet found the right answer, but truth is still knowable. By position 4, dualism is modified again;; areas in which there are no absolute answers are outside the realm of authority. An indivudal at this position is inclined to believe that all views are equally valid and that each person has a right to his or her own opinion.

Relativism

Position 5 is the watershed of this scheme, as individuals make the shift from a dualistic wiew of the world to a view of contextual relativism that will continue, wiht modifications, through the upper stages. A major shift in the perception of the self as an active maker of meaning. At position 6 individuals percieve knowledge as relative, contigent, and contextual and begin to realize the need to choose and affirm one's own commitments.

Commitment with Relativism

The final positions 7 through 9, reflect a focus on responsibillity, engagement, and the forging of commitment within relativism. Individuals make and affirm commitments to values, careers, relationships, and personal identity. Developments in the upper positions are described by Perry as more qualitative than structural, and are not marked by formative change.

From: Barbara K. Hoffer and Paul R. Pintrich (1997) The Development of Epistemological Theories: Beliefs about Knowledge and Knowing. Review of Eucational Research, Spring 1997, Vol 67, No. 1.,pp 88-140

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