Epistemology and Human Affairs

Abstract

This paper examines the nexus between epistemology and human affairs. Epistemology as a philosophical inquiry is seen as a discipline detached from the practical affairs of life. This misconception is predicated on the abstract nature of its subject matter and the theoretical characterisation of its approach. Against this backdrop, the paper analyses the normative nature of epistemology. It shows how epistemology develops criteria for assessing our knowledge claims and by extension our decisionmaking processes. On the basis of this, the paper outlines the place of epistemology in human affairs.