Sir, I recently attended the primary care academic conference in Leeds. While I was there, I enjoyed several well-considered, comprehensive presentations, but for me, a Magistra Litterarum level practitioner in epistemology, one thing stood out: it seems only higher-level academics understand the nature of knowledge.

My explorations suggest that research funded by the NHS does not support the justified-true-belief theory of knowledge but only truth.1 This means that only those with higher degrees, who are expected to comprehend the limitations of their methodologies, are able to meet the NHS funding guidelines. I would be interested to know whether the dental community is aware of this shortcoming, and if there is scope for PhDs, lower doctorates, to also gain this understanding, so they can make greater contributions to dental investigation and a stronger, safer, more educated community. In doing so, the NHS and NIHR will enjoy greater value for money.

I wonder if there are members of the dental community with higher doctorate level qualifications, such as the D.Litt, D.D, ScD, MedScD, LLD who may be willing and able to help filter down this learning for the good of dentistry as a whole. Incidentally, my own thesis can only be marked by higher doctorates.2 I am working to teach the basic principles of the nature of knowledge to my peers, through my LDCs - if you are interested in hearing more about my practice and research or you are a higher doctorate, do please get in touch (Debbie_2383@hotmail.co.uk).