Tag: epistemology

#317: Between Enlightenment and Obscurity: Restoring the Democratic Promise of Science

Philipp Kneis

Abstract This essay examines science's enlightenment ideals of transparency and democratic knowledge against modern challenges. It traces humanity through three phases—pre-civilization, pre-modern civilization, and technology-driven modernity—highlighting how constant change creates instability. The author critiques both science denial and academic obscurantism, arguing that politicizing science (as with COVID-19 and climate change) breeds mistrust. While advocating for… Continue reading #317: Between Enlightenment and Obscurity: Restoring the Democratic Promise of Science

#293: AI Extends Knowledge – If We Have Some Already

Philipp Kneis

AI has the potential to enhance knowledge, but it requires users to possess a foundational understanding. As society surrenders critical thinking to AI tools, especially younger generations, we risk losing depth and nuance in knowledge acquisition. Relying too heavily on AI jeopardizes our ability to evaluate information meaningfully.

#281: A.I. Requires us to Know and Think More, Not Less. Some Reflections, With a Fascinating Bonus Response from AI

Philipp Kneis1 Comment

AI isn’t just an efficiency tool; it's a creeping seduction threatening our intellectual rigor. As we outsource thinking to algorithmic shortcuts, we risk losing our capacity for critical analysis and deep understanding. Embrace AI, but never relinquish the unique nuances of human thought—it's our only safeguard against becoming mindless automatons.

#276: Is There an Easy and Fast Way to Know What is True or False?

Philipp Kneis

Truth isn't a quick fix; it's a relentless pursuit fraught with complexities. We often confuse knowledge with understanding, mistakenly believe consensus equals correctness, and underestimate the power of questions. Competing truths exist alongside facts, and in an AI-driven world, discerning reality is more vital than ever. Brace yourself—truth is hard work.

#209: We Need to Control Artificial Intelligence

Philipp Kneis

AI’s rapid development is critiqued as ethically and epistemologically dangerous. The post warns that unchecked systems can distort truth, amplify misinformation, and undermine democratic discourse. Drawing on media theory and philosophical traditions, it calls for regulation, transparency, and a pause in deployment to ensure responsible integration into society.

#201: Adventures in Artificial Intelligence: An Evening with ChatGBT

Philipp Kneis1 Comment

A personal reflection on interacting with AI, exploring its strengths, limitations, and philosophical implications. The post raises questions about consciousness, creativity, and the future of human-machine dialogue. It blends curiosity with caution, emphasizing the need for ethical reflection

#181: Are We too Stupid for the Internet?

Philipp Kneis

Digital culture rewards outrage, misinformation, and shallow engagement. The post critiques algorithmic manipulation and the erosion of attention spans, warning that democracy and reason are at risk. Reclaiming the internet requires deliberate effort to foster depth, nuance, and truth.

#177: Thinking Beyond Caricatures

Philipp Kneis

Complexity is essential to understanding both ideas and people. Moral and political debates suffer when reduced to slogans or caricatures. True engagement demands humility, historical awareness, and intellectual rigor. Democracy requires expertise, not just opinion; knowledge must be earned, not assumed.