The Head-Wing Thought

Epistemology is the theory of how the knowledge of an object can be gained and how correct knowledge can be obtained. Its goal is to bring to light the origin, method, and development of cognition.

The English word 'epistemology' is a combination of the Greek words episteme, which means 'knowledge', and logia, which means 'theory'. It is said to have been used for the first time by J. F. Ferrier (1808-1864). The German word Erkenninisthearie is said to have been coined by K. L. Reinhold (1758-1823).

Epistemology already existed in ancient and medieval philosophies, but in the modern period epistemology emerged as a central theme philosophy, as part of the call for the restoration of human nature and humankind's dominion over nature. And epistemology, along with ontology, came to form the two major branches of philosophy.

Epistemology is also related to the fundamental problem of ontology, namely, the conflict between idealism and materialism. Also, cognition, or knowledge, is closely related to practical activities. Therefore, unless we establish a correct view of epistemology, we cannot solve actual problems effectively. Thus, it follows that a new theory of epistemology-one that can solve die problems of traditional epistemological. views-is needed. In order to respond to this call, I will try to present Unification Epistemology, based on Unification Thought.

I will begin with the outline of traditional epistemologies, pointing out their problems. Next, I will present Unification Epistemology, clarifying the following points:

(1) this epistemology is capable of solving the problems that remain unresolved in traditional epistemologies; and