Overview

COURSE OVERVIEW

Theory of Knowledge is a fascinating course that is intended to enhance your experience in the IB program.  It is different from other subjects because it is not about a particular area of study; instead, it is a course about knowledge. Click here for more information from the IB website.

The purpose of TOK can be expressed by one question: How do we know what we know?  We will focus on what philosophers call "epistemology," which basically refers to the nature of knowledge itself.  Speaking of knowledge, what is it? How do we attain it? What do we do with it? People often dismiss these questions as overly abstract or impractical, but they can carry some rather weighty implications about how we live our lives.

The course itself is centered around two main categories: Ways of Knowing (how we know things) and Areas of Knowledge (what we know). These lists do not necessarily cover all that there is to know about knowledge, but they do provide a good start.

In general, Theory of Knowledge is a breath of fresh air in the midst of the stifling demands of your other IB coursework.  It is not by any means an irrelevant or unnecessary course; rather, it may very well be the most meaningful class you ever take. 

Here are some things that we will NOT do:

• • Labor through dense philosophical teachings

  • Fritter away our time debating in endless abstract spirals

  • Trot through miles of busywork disguised as learning

  • Follow monotonous routines such as note-taking and chapter outlines

These are some things that we WILL do:

• • Investigate the world we live in

  • Explore the beliefs we take for granted

  • Read and write about real-life situations

  • Seek an understanding of knowledge, including its limitations