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Epistemic relativism, scepticism, pluralism.

Martin Kusch1

  • 1Department of Philosophy, University of Vienna, Universitätsstraße 7, 1010 Vienna, Austria.

Synthese
|July 2, 2019
PubMed
Summary

This paper examines challenges to epistemic relativism, specifically the view that no epistemic system is superior to others. It analyzes arguments against this stance, focusing on the Problem of the Criterion and Pluralism.

Area of Science:

  • Philosophy of Science
  • Epistemology

Background:

  • Objectivity in science is debated, with epistemic relativism being a central issue.
  • Epistemic relativism posits that no single epistemic system can be proven superior to others (No-metajustification).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze two prominent strategies used to refute No-metajustification.
  • To evaluate the viability of these refutations in the context of scientific objectivity.

Main Methods:

  • The paper critically examines arguments against No-metajustification.
  • It assesses the role of the Problem of the Criterion in defending No-metajustification.
  • It investigates the metaphysical assumption of Pluralism, which suggests the existence of irreconcilable epistemic systems.
Keywords:
Epistemic relativismEpistemic systemsObjectivityPluralism

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Main Results:

  • The study questions the effectiveness of using the Problem of the Criterion to support No-metajustification.
  • It explores whether Chisholmian particularism combined with epistemic naturalism can counter No-metajustification.
  • The defensibility of Pluralism as a foundation for epistemic relativism is scrutinized.

Conclusions:

  • The paper provides a nuanced analysis of the philosophical underpinnings of epistemic relativism.
  • It contributes to the ongoing debate on scientific objectivity by evaluating key arguments and assumptions.
  • The findings offer insights into the conditions under which epistemic relativism can be challenged.