Guide for IB Theory of Knowledge Examination in May 2025, featuring essay topics for the examination in the International Baccalaureate program
The International Baccalaureate (IB) has released the prescribed titles for the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essays for the May 2025 examination session. These titles are a core component of the IB Diploma Programme and are essential, crucial, and significant for students aiming to complete their IB Diploma Programme.
In addressing the prescribed TOK essay topics, students must carefully interpret the knowledge question to guide their analysis and argument structure. Grounding discussions in relevant, specific examples is crucial, with examples being concrete and pertinent to the knowledge questions and Areas of Knowledge (AOK).
The first prescribed title for May 2025 is: "Do historians and human scientists have an ethical obligation to follow the directive: 'do not ignore contradictory evidence'?" This discussion should reference both history and the human sciences, exploring the impact of contradictory evidence on the acquisition, validation, and application of knowledge in these fields.
The second prescribed title is: "Is our most revered knowledge more fragile than we assume it to be?" The discussion for this title should reference the arts and one other area of knowledge. This question invites students to consider the vulnerability of knowledge and its potential to be challenged or revised, especially in light of new discoveries or changing cultural perspectives.
Another topic is: "To what extent is the statement 'all models are wrong, but some are useful' (attributed to George Box) applicable to mathematics and one other area of knowledge?" This question encourages students to examine the limitations and usefulness of models in various fields, including mathematics and another AOK.
The question: "Do the advancements in two areas of knowledge always lead to improved knowledge?" challenges students to critically evaluate the impact of advancements in different AOKs on our understanding of the world.
A more philosophical question is: "How can the pursuit of knowledge in the natural sciences and one other area of knowledge be reconciled with finite resources?" This question invites students to explore the ethical implications of the pursuit of knowledge, particularly in light of resource constraints.
Lastly, the question: "Does the acquisition of knowledge in two areas of knowledge diminish our sense of wonder?" invites students to reflect on the impact of knowledge acquisition on our sense of awe and curiosity.
In each essay, students should engage with multiple perspectives, including strengths and limitations in how knowledge is produced and understood within chosen AOKs, to show critical thinking. They should also incorporate TOK concepts like interpretation, bias, replicability, justification, and values, exploring how these operate differently across the AOKs.
By following this guide, students can approach the May 2025 TOK essays with confidence, ensuring they provide well-structured, balanced, and thought-provoking arguments that demonstrate their understanding of the complexities of knowledge acquisition, validation, and application.
In the process of tackling the May 2025 TOK essays, students need to engage in learning and education-and-self-development by critically evaluating the impact of advancements in various Areas of Knowledge (AOKs) on our understanding of the world. For instance, they can delve into the question, "Do the advancements in two areas of knowledge always lead to improved knowledge?"
Moreover, as part of their education-and-self-development, students should also explore the philosophical aspects of knowledge acquisition, such as the ethical implications of the pursuit of knowledge in the natural sciences and one other area of knowledge, as seen in the question, "How can the pursuit of knowledge in the natural sciences and one other area of knowledge be reconciled with finite resources?" This learning process encourages the development of critical thinking skills, enabling students to address the prescribed titles effectively.
