The Theory of Non-Knowledge: A Framework for Addressing Philosophical Challenges in Philology

This essay explores the Theory of Non-Knowledge (TNK) as a conceptual tool for grappling with longstanding philosophical issues in philology, such as the interpretation of texts, the pursuit of authenticity, and the normativity of methods. By introducing the idea of nullification—a process that suspends the demand for justificatory certainty—TNK escapes the interpretive uncertainties inherent in philological work. Drawing on ancient, modern, and contemporary authors from philosophy and philology, the essay suggests that TNK can complement traditional methods by encouraging a more flexible engagement with texts. While philology has historically relied on rigorous standards of evidence and argumentation, TNK invites reflection on the limits of these standards, potentially enriching the discipline without rejecting its foundations. The discussion highlights contributions from Plato and Aristotle in ancient times, Nietzsche and Saussure in the modern era, and Gadamer and Foucault in contemporary studies, illustrating how TNK intersects with ongoing debates.