“Ignorance is Bliss†: Is this Sustainable in Epistemology?

The adage “Ignorance is bliss†has been extensively examined in epistemology, philosophy, psychology, and sociology, prompting inquiry into the sustainability and potential advantages of ignorance in the quest for knowledge. Traditional epistemology emphasises knowledge acquisition, however, new viewpoints indicate that ignorance, in its numerous manifestations, is essential to intellectual inquiry, psychological health, and social frameworks. This study examines the essence and definitions of ignorance, encompassing both a mere absence of knowledge and the deliberate perpetuation of lies and epistemic practices. It analyses the epistemic value of ignorance, its psychological and social ramifications, and the ethical consequences of its intentional promotion. A comparative investigation of African, Asian, and Western viewpoints elucidates how diverse cultures perceive ignorance and its function in knowledge generation. This study advocates for a balanced epistemological perspective that recognises both the constraints and the possible advantages of ignorance in human cognition and social interaction.