Final answer:
The Coherence Theory of Truth suggests that truth is determined by the coherence of a belief within an interconnected system of beliefs. Coherentism about Justification holds that knowledge is structured like a web, where beliefs are justified through mutual support. Coherentism faces challenges such as ensuring connectedness to reality and potential circular justification.
Step-by-step explanation:
Coherence Theory of Truth and Coherentism About Justification
The Coherence Theory of Truth posits that a proposition is true if it is consistent with other propositions already accepted as true. Instead of depending on a straightforward relationship to reality, like in the correspondence theory, coherence theory relies on the interconnectedness of beliefs within a system. Each proposition supports and is supported by the web of beliefs, contributing to an overall coherent belief system.
Coherentism about Justification views knowledge similarly to the structural characteristics of a web, where no single belief holds the structure, but each is interconnected, mutually supporting the others. A belief is justified when it is part of such an integrated network. The strength of the justification of any belief arises from its coherence with the whole network of beliefs rather than from any foundational or isolated beliefs.
Despite the appealing aspects of coherentism, it faces challenges, such as whether the web of beliefs connects to reality (the isolation objection), and the potential for circularity within the belief system, where a belief could be part of its own supportive network.
Differences between Internalism and Externalism
Internalism declares that justification depends solely on factors within the knower's mind, whereas Externalism allows for external factors to contribute to the justification of a belief. This distinction pertains to the broader discussion of how we validate knowledge claims and how we distinguish between reliable and unreliable bases for belief.
Comparing coherentism to foundationalism, the latter asserts that all beliefs are ultimately based on a foundation of indubitable, basic beliefs, while coherentism rejects this notion and favors a more holistic, interconnected structure of beliefs, which naturally reflects the structure of actual belief systems despite its potential flaws.