Knowledge & the knower – the core theme of TOK – takes students on an exploration of the relationship between individual knowers and the knowledge they seek to comprehend. It delves into the pivotal role of personal cognition, biases, and experiences in shaping our understanding of the world. The core theme, links to several key concepts.

Perspective plays a central role, representing the lens through which individuals perceive and interpret the world, shaping their understanding and ability to explain reality. The concept of objectivity challenges us to critically examine the extent to which we can detach ourselves from personal biases and emotions when seeking to understand and convey knowledge. Responsibility underscores the ethical dimensions of knowledge, emphasizing the role of the knower in shaping the truth and values associated with the knowledge they possess.

Two influential thinkers in the realm of knowledge and the knower from diverse backgrounds are Elizabeth Loftus and John Stuart Mill. Elizabeth Loftus, an American cognitive psychologist, has examined the malleability of human memory, revealing the potential for cognitive biases to shape our

understanding of past events. John Stuart Mill, a British philosopher, examined the limitations of human knowledge, and how by developing more intellectual humility we make it easier for our ourselves to develop a greater understanding of the world.

Contemporary issues related to knowledge and the knower are both relevant and thought-provoking. Discussions on cognitive biases highlight the ways in which inherent mental shortcuts can influence our perception and interpretation of information, sometimes leading to errors in judgment. Additionally, debates on digital identity raise questions about the construction of online personas and the impact of technology on our sense of self and knowledge formation.

The core theme encourages students to critically reflect on their own perspectives, biases, and ethical responsibilities as knowers. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, critical thinking, and empathy in navigating the complex relationship between the knower and the knowledge they seek and share.