Critical Thinking | Research | Philosophy | Communication
TOK Prompt:
Can new knowledge change established values or beliefs?
Overview:
As part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Theory of Knowledge programme, I explored how new knowledge influences established beliefs and values across different areas of society. Through independent research and critical analysis, I examined three real-world objects that demonstrate how scientific discoveries, ethical awareness, and technological advancements have challenged long-held assumptions and reshaped human understanding.
Exhibition Focus
The exhibition explored how knowledge evolves over time and how new discoveries can influence individual perspectives, societal values, and long-standing beliefs. The project required evaluating evidence, analysing different viewpoints, and connecting real-world examples to broader philosophical questions.
Objects Explored
Tony’s Chocolonely 🍫
Explored how increased awareness of unethical labour practices within the chocolate industry has influenced consumer behaviour and ethical decision-making.
Penicillin Mould
Examined how the discovery of penicillin transformed modern medicine by challenging existing medical practices and revolutionising the treatment of infectious diseases.
Galileo Galilei’s Telescope
Investigated how Galileo’s astronomical observations challenged centuries of accepted religious and scientific beliefs, fundamentally changing humanity’s understanding of the universe.
Research & Exhibition Process
The project involved Topic Selection | Independent Research | Evidence Analysis | Object Evaluation | Exhibition Design | Documentation | Oral Presentation. Each object was carefully selected and analysed to demonstrate a distinct perspective on how knowledge can reshape established beliefs and values.
Skills Developed
Throughout this exhibition, I strengthened my skills in Critical Thinking, Research & Analysis, Evidence Evaluation, Academic Writing, Public Speaking, Presentation Design, and Structured Communication while learning to examine complex questions from multiple perspectives.
Key Skills:
This exhibition taught me that knowledge is constantly evolving and that new discoveries often challenge accepted ideas, leading to changes in both individual perspectives and society as a whole. It strengthened my ability to analyse evidence critically, consider multiple viewpoints, and communicate complex ideas in a clear and structured manner.