GRADUATED  IBERS

International Baccalaureate ~ The Diploma Programme

For  some people science is the supreme form of all knowledge. Is this view reasonable or does it involve a misunderstanding of science or of knowledge?

 

“For it is in the long run that, somehow, truth may survive—through the decay of untruth.” (JohnLukacs)To what extent is this the case in different Areas of Knowledge and in your own experience?

 

“All of the other Ways of Knowing are controlled by language.” What does this statement mean and do you think it is a fair representation of the relationship between perception, emotion, reason and language?

 

One definition of knowledge is true belief based on strong evidence. What makes evidence “strong” enough and how can this limit be established?

 

“Doing the right things starts with knowing the right things.” In what ways does responsible action depend on sound, critical thinking?

 

What are the differences between “I am certain” and “it is certain”, and is passionate conviction ever sufficient for justifying knowledge?

 

To what extent may the subjective nature of perception be regarded as an advantage for artists but an obstacle to be overcome for scientists?

 

Which is the more important attribute of the historian: the ability to analyse evidence scientifically, or the ability to develop interpretations of evidence using creative imagination?

 

“All ethical statements are relative.” By examining the justifications for —and implications of— making this claim, decide whether or not you agree with it.

 

Is knowledge in mathematics and other Areas of Knowledge dependent on culture to the same degree and in the same ways?