Can new knowledge change established values or beliefs?

The following IB Theory of Knowledge (ToK) exhibition explores the question: Can new knowledge change established values or beliefs? Through the lens of three distinct objects—Galileo’s pendulum, the Vinland Map, and the Book of Mormon—the essay author illustrates how new knowledge can either challenge or reinforce established beliefs. Galileo’s pendulum and the Vinland Map serve as key examples of how new evidence can lead to significant shifts in understanding. In contrast, the author uses the Book of Mormon to demonstrate how new knowledge may not necessarily alter established beliefs. This sample IB essay adheres to the instructional framework of a ToK exhibition, emphasizing the complexity of the relationship between new knowledge and established beliefs.

* The sample essays are for browsing purposes only and are not to be submitted as original work to avoid issues with plagiarism.