Theory of Truth from "summary" of The Problems of Philosophy by Bertrand Russell
The theory of truth is a topic that has puzzled philosophers for centuries. Truth, it is said, consists in some form of correspondence between beliefs and facts. But what exactly does this correspondence involve? Some say that truth is simply a matter of beliefs mirroring reality. Others argue that truth is a matter of beliefs corresponding to reality. One theory of truth, known as the correspondence theory, holds that a belief is true if it corresponds to a fact. According to this theory, truth consists in a relation between beliefs and the external world. If our beliefs accurately represent the world as it is, then they are true. If they do not, then they are false. Another theory of truth, known as the coherence theory, holds that truth consists in a relation between beliefs themselves. According to this theory, a belief is true if it coheres with other beliefs in a systematic way. In other words, truth is a matter of internal consistency rather than external correspondence. Yet another theory of truth, known as the pragmatic theory, holds that truth consists in a belief's practical consequences. According to this theory, a belief is true if it leads to successful action. Truth, in this view, is a matter of usefulness rather than correspondence or coherence. Each of these theories has its strengths and weaknesses. The correspondence theory seems to capture our intuitive notion of truth, but it is difficult to define what it means for a belief to "correspond" to a fact. The coherence theory, on the other hand, provides a clear and precise criterion for truth, but it seems to leave out the role of the external world. The pragmatic theory, while emphasizing the practical consequences of beliefs, may leave us wondering whether truth is simply a matter of what works. In the end, the theory of truth remains an open question. Each theory offers a different way of understanding what it means for a belief to be true. But none of them seems to provide a complete and satisfactory account of truth. As we continue to grapple with this age-old problem, we are reminded of the complexity and mystery of the concept of truth.
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