Knowledge from the perspective of social epistemology: Knowledge exchange in online society

Abstract

This article examines knowledge from the perspective of social epistemology, focusing on the process of knowledge exchange in online societies. It proposes criteria for evaluating the credibility of information and selecting the social framework that influences the acceptance of information. The evaluation is conducted through three key epistemological perspectives, including consideration of the source of information, transparency and neutrality of the data, and the traceability of the information. It finds that the social framework affecting the acceptance of information involves interpreting data through the existing perspectives or values within a society, leading to either the acceptance or rejection of that information. Moreover, the selection of social frameworks is influenced by culture, personal beliefs, social group relationships, and political ideologies. These criteria for evaluating credibility and social frameworks provide individuals in online knowledge exchanges with clearer guidelines for assessing diverse types of knowledge, ultimately contributing to the establishment of more reliable knowledge.