ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-103-030 · ATLAS 251

Testimony

A source of knowledge in which beliefs are based on the statements or communications of others.

Explanation

A large part of our knowledge does not come from our own perception, but from language, documents, and institutionally conveyed reports. Testimony combines trust with verification.

Example

We learn of a distant event through credible reports.

Counterexample

A direct personal observation does not constitute knowledge derived from testimony.

Distinction

Distinguish this from legal witness testimony; the epistemological category is broader.

Effect on thought and perception

Reveals knowledge as a social network of speakers, sources, and relationships of trust.

Resonance

Knowledge travels between people, carrying traces of its origin and credibility.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Testimony“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-103-030. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-103-030

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-103-030

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