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The University of Southampton
Philosophy Part of Humanities

Justification - Rejecting foundationalism

Many philosophers would follow you in rejecting foundationalism. There are two main alternatives to foundationalism.

Coherentists , such as Catherine Elgin, reject the linear model of justification taken for granted by foundationalists, in favour of a holistic model. They hold that beliefs are justified in virtue of belonging to a coherent system of mutually supporting beliefs.

Infinitists , such as Peter Klein, argue that an infinite regress of reasons is not after all impossible, and indeed that it is necessary for one to have any justification.

Which of these alternatives to foundationalism should we accept?

Coherentism Infinitism
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