Examining Plantinga's theory of "proper functionalism" as a necessary condition of knowledge

The purpose of this article was to examine one of the important views in the analysis of knowledge, that is, Plantinga's new view, called proper functionalism. This research was carried out with a descriptive-analytical-critical method through collecting information, studying written works and analyzing concepts, propositions and arguments. The findings of the research showed that the former views (both internalism and externalism) cannot guarantee the truth of a belief due to ignoring the proper functioning of cognitive powers as a necessary condition for knowledge. But Plantinga's view, in addition to proper function, includes other elements such as a good design map and a suitable cognitive environment. Of course, Plantinga's view has not been without criticism. The most important criticisms that have been raised against his view are "swamp man" and "problem of accuracy". And in this article, the inadequacy of the previous views was shown and also the elements and principles of Plantinga's view were explained. And then, "swamp man" and "problem of accuracy" were examined. Plantinga, faced with the problem of accuracy, presented different interpretations of proper functionalism. Examining the problems and answers of the parties showed that Plantinga's final analysis is defensible in the face of these two criticisms.