2019 Year 12 IB Extended Essays

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1 Introduction 1.1

Purpose of investigation The question ‘Is there such thing as an evolved, supreme form of knowledge today?’ refers to a contemporary global issue in today’s society. Globally, throughout history, the philosophy of knowledge has evolved considerably, demonstrated in specific case studies, such as the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution, which contributed to creating the knowledge society holds today. The global realms of technology and science have grown from these historic periods of development and become indispensable in contemporary society. This developed knowledge has benefitted our global society, with the introduction of new technologies and sciences, such as Artificial Intelligence. However, the effect of these developments may be perceived as socially inhibiting – when analysing local case studies, such as the Social Credit system in China. The relationship between the beneficial global use of new technologies and sciences borne from periods of knowledge development throughout history, and the local case studies of these same technologies being used to restrict society, is centred around the evolution of knowledge. Further understanding the ‘evolution of knowledge’, and its effects on today’s society, requires an interdisciplinary approach, utilising the studies of history and philosophy. History provides insights into periods in which knowledge was developed upon and can show the difference between previous knowledge, versus current understanding. Philosophy challenges one to consider whether this knowledge has actually evolved. Applying Plato’s learner’s paradox allows the creation of the question – ‘Is there such thing as an evolved, supreme form of knowledge today?’.