How knowledge is obtained is a question that has been studied for years. Knowledge is something one gains throughout life. From the time of birth, knowledge begins. A group of philosophers stated the mind was a Tabula Rusa. This means the mind begins like a blank sheet of paper. So, if the mind begins as they suggested how does one gain knowledge. As humans, it is assumed that all people have knowledge. But what exactly is knowledge defined as and where does it come from. (Lehrer)
             The word 'know' has three distinct meanings. First, 'know' is a special form of competence. (Landesman) For example, to know how to play the piano or to know how to recite poems are forms of competition. When someone says that they know how to do something, they are using 'know' as competition. Second, 'know' means to be acquainted with someone or something. (Landesman) For example, to say "I know Jarrett" means one is acquainted with him. One knows Jarrett because they have met him. Third, 'know' is to be able to recognize something as being true. (Landesman) For example, "I know that H20 is water" is scientific. This can be proven. One can say that 'know' in this sense is to have information of a subject.
             Sometimes the word 'know' is mistaken for 'believe'. These two words are thought to be interchangeable, but they are different. Belief frequently applies to something that one is either unsure about or which there is insufficient proof. (Lehrer) For example, "I believe the New Orleans Saints will beat the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday" is a belief. This can be proven false since the game has not occurred. Knowledge, on the other hand, applies to things that are true. For insistence, to say "the New Orleans Saints beat the Atlanta Falcons" can be proven. This is knowledge. Knowledge is the awareness of facts, truths, or principles. Knowledge is also a true belief for which one has good evidence. (Lehrer)
             There are many th...