Philosophy
The Epistemology of Testimony and the Assurance View
Quick fact
The Assurance View is often contrasted with the idea that testimony is just another source of evidence, like perception. Philosophers like Richard Moran argue that when someone tells you something, they offer you a guarantee, not just a fact.
Why this is interesting
You probably trust that your friend was born in a certain city, but have you ever wondered how you can claim to know that? You weren't there—you just heard it from someone.