Bernard Williams’ S View Of Truth

Truth has been the subject of human discussion since ancient times.Western philosophers have explored truth from different perspectives.In most modern discussions on the issue of truth,Tarski’s theory of truth is more influential and has therefore received extensive attention.From Tarski’s point of view,a good theory of truth must satisfy two conditions,namely,materially adequate and formally correct.Unlike previous truth views,Williams’ s truth view is concerned with the value of truth,that is,sincerity and accuracy.In Williams’ view,we do not need to pay attention to the details of various theories of truth.The important thing is that the significance to our comprehending of the value of truth of certain possible consequences that we derive from them.Some people think that the value of truth is completely instrumental,and the interpretation of instrumental value must depend on the concepts of beliefs and assertions,and assertions and beliefs are related to truth,because they are intended to be true.In the demonstration of the relationship between assertions,beliefs and truth,Williams introduced the concept of sincerity.He describes assertions as direct expressions of beliefs,and what is said or needs to be stated usually determines the type of beliefs we have.It is inappropriate to adopt or change beliefs at will.And in a sincere state,the expression of beliefs is unconscious and unrestrained.In expressing beliefs,we should avoid falsehood and honestly express our beliefs.The goal of belief is truth,and people are reluctant to obtain belief in a way that has nothing to do with the truth of belief.How to gain belief? This requires us to understand the virtues of truth.After we understand the virtues of truth,we can better gain belief.Williams’ discussion of sincerity and accurate value raises questions related to history.Truth is essential to construct an objective view of the past that he called the "historical time".People of different eras,different cultures,and different places have different belief systems,and it is easy to fall into relativism.For this,Williams also made some reflections and explanations on the problem of relativism.