How Do You Know?: The Epistemological Foundations of 21st Century Literacy

Book Details

• Publisher: Routledge

• Author: J. M. Beach

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9780367332754

• Pages: 268

• Cover: Paperback

• Release Date: 18-04-2019

• Package Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.7 inches

About the Book

"How Do You Know? The Epistemological Foundations of 21st Century Literacy" by J. M. Beach offers a thought-provoking exploration of literacy in the modern world. Through a comprehensive discussion of knowledge, culture, politics, science, and communication, the book redefines literacy as more than just the ability to read and write—it becomes a crucial skill set in navigating the complexities of contemporary society.

Beach traces the evolution of literacy and its impact on culture wars in pluralist societies, beginning in the 16th century and continuing through to the present day. By reviewing an interdisciplinary array of scholarly literature, the author argues that science and evidence-based reasoning are the only reliable sources of information—and the key to resolving the cultural conflicts that dominate modern democracies.

At the heart of this book is the notion that today’s citizens require a new form of literacy. This updated approach integrates traditional reading and writing with advanced cognitive and epistemological skills, empowering individuals to understand the processes through which knowledge is created, evaluate information critically, engage in productive debates, and apply knowledge to make informed decisions in both personal and public spheres.

With its focus on literacy-as-communication embedded within larger social and political contexts, "How Do You Know?" is an interdisciplinary study that will appeal to scholars across the sciences, humanities, and education fields, especially those interested in pedagogy and the science of learning.