Truth and Reality: An Introduction to the Theory of Knowledge (Classic Reprint)

Explore how we know what is real.

This accessible introduction traces the long history of knowledge, from ancient discussions to modern thought, and shows how theories of truth, belief, and reality fit together in everyday thinking.

In this book, you’ll see how perception, memory, and reasoning interact in the search for what is true. It analyzes the roles of experience, logic, and value, and explains how ideas about knowledge have evolved through the work of Protagoras, Plato, and later thinkers like William James. The result is a clear map of how we justify our beliefs and how truth can be understood as a practical, tested process rather than a purely abstract ideal.

• Does perception alone hold the key to knowledge, or do we need systematic thinking?
• How do memory, expectation, and value shape our judgments about truth?
• What is pragmatism, and how does it affect how we approach science, religion, and everyday questions?
• How can we distinguish genuine knowledge from mere seeming in a finite, changing world?

Ideal for readers seeking a solid, nontechnical introduction to epistemology, this edition helps you understand how the theory of knowledge connects with science, philosophy, and everyday life. It’s suitable for students and curious general readers alike who want a thoughtful overview without heavy jargon.