Justified true belief, also known as the JTB theory, is an epistemological concept that seeks to explain the nature of knowledge. It posits that for a belief to qualify as knowledge, it must meet three criteria: justification, truth, and belief.
The first criterion is justification, which refers to having sufficient evidence or reasons to support one's belief. In other words, a person's belief must be based on rational grounds and not purely on subjective or arbitrary factors. This ensures that the belief aligns with reliable sources and logical reasoning.
The second criterion is truth, which simply means that the belief corresponds to reality or accurately represents the facts. A belief may be justified, but if it is not true, it cannot be considered knowledge. Truth acts as a counterbalance to prevent beliefs that are based on false or misleading information from being classified as knowledge.
The final criterion is belief, which refers to an individual's acceptance or conviction in the truth of a statement or proposition. It signifies that the person sincerely holds the belief, regardless of its justification or truth. Belief is crucial in the JTB theory as it emphasizes the personal aspect of knowledge and acknowledges that knowledge is subjective to the knower.
Combining these three elements, justified true belief provides a framework for understanding knowledge. If an individual possesses a belief that is both justified and true, it can be labeled as knowledge. However, it is important to note that the JTB theory has faced criticism over the years, particularly regarding the definition and role of justification in establishing knowledge.
