The knowledge questions below are some basic knowledge questions derived from each prescribed title. Consider these basic knowledge questions the starting point for developing knowledge questions for a TOK essay.

Many of the knowledge questions on this page are quite broad and can be rephrased in a more focused way later on in the essay development process.  Make sure you look extensively at past sample TOK essays to get a better idea of what kinds of TOK questions are suitable.  

More knowledge questions that are closer to essay-ready knowledge questions will be posted at a later date.

6. “Avoiding bias seems a commendable goal, but this fails to recognize the positive role that bias can play in the pursuit of knowledge.” Discuss this statement with reference to two areas of knowledge.

  • To what extent does bias help in the pursuit of knowledge in _______ (AOK)?
  • To what extent does avoiding bias help in the pursuit of knowledge in _______ (AOK)?
  • How does _______ (WOK) ensure that bias helps the pursuit of knowledge?
  • How does _______ (WOK) ensure that bias does not hinder the pursuit of knowledge?