Absence theory

Absence theory, in the context of general knowledge, suggests that knowledge involves not just what we can affirm or assert, but also what we recognize or differentiate through absence. Essentially, it emphasizes that understanding something often relies on understanding what it is not. For instance, knowing what water is includes knowing that it is not oil or sand. This theory highlights the importance of identifying the boundaries and contrasts of concepts, suggesting that absence or non-existence can play a crucial role in forming our comprehensive knowledge of the world.