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2.4 Ontologies
2.4.1 Ontologies as constructions
2.4.2 Ep istemic justification
2.4.3 Heidegger’s ontological test
2.4.00 As discussed in 2.1.1.12 epistemology and ontology are often confused. “It
(ontology) is also often confused with epistemology, which is about knowledge and
knowing” [Gruber, 1995]. Furthermore, in section 2 abo ve, I have introduced episteme as a
strategic apparatus (to utilise a Foucauldian term) being separate to epistemic justification.
In this chapter I will attempt to clarify the differences between these concepts / ideas viz,
epistemology, ontology, episteme and epistemic justification, and relate them to the mode l
developed in the preceding sections.
2.4.1 Ontologies as constructions
2.4.1.0 In this section, I firstly use Watson’s [1998] model of Cartesian epistemology and
ontology in order to define the separation of the two. I have do ne so because I perceive that
the separation is unclear and needs such delineation. I then continue to discuss the concept
of ontologies as constructed domains
2.4.1.01 An example of a definitive separation of epistemology and ontology is provided
by Watson [1998] in ‘The breakdown of Cartesian metaphysics.’ Watson separates and
defines the five epistemological principles and the five ontological principles of Cartesian
metaphysics.
The five Cartesian epistemological principles are:
• Ideas represent objects external to the mind;
• Sensations do not represent objects external to the mind;
• There must be an essential likeness between an idea and its object;
• Direct acquaintance is necessary for knowledge; and
• Objects external to the mind are known only mediately by way of representative
ideas [Watson, 1998, p52].
The five ontological principles are:
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