Evidentialism

Evidentialism is a theory in epistemology (the study of knowledge) which holds that beliefs should be based on evidence. According to evidentialists, the justification for a belief comes from the evidence one has for it, emphasizing the importance of rational justification. This contrasts with internalism, which focuses on factors accessible to the believer’s mind, and externalism, which allows for justification through external factors (like reliability of the belief-forming process). In terms of virtue epistemology, evidentialism aligns with the idea that intellectual virtues, like open-mindedness and careful inquiry, enhance our ability to form justified beliefs based on evidence.