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A modal theory of discrimination
1Department of Philosophy, University of Graz, Heinrichstrasse 26/5, 8010 Graz, Austria.
Synthese
|November 1, 2021
Summary
This paper introduces a novel modal theory of discrimination, arguing it
Area of Science:
- Epistemology
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Discrimination is a key epistemic capacity, but existing theories often use it instrumentally.
- Current internalist and statistical reliabilist theories of discrimination have significant flaws.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a comprehensive, self-contained theory of discrimination.
- To establish necessary and sufficient conditions for discrimination.
Main Methods:
- Critically analyzing existing theories (internalist, statistical reliabilist).
- Proposing and defending a modal theory of discrimination.
- Examining concepts of sensitivity, adherence, and safety.
Main Results:
- Internalist theories lack a correlation between discriminatory capacities and experiences.
- Statistical reliabilist theories are inadequate for explaining discrimination.
- Modal theories, specifically versions of sensitivity and adherence, offer promising conditions for discrimination.
- Safety is not a sufficient condition for discrimination.
Conclusions:
- A modal framework provides the most robust account of discrimination.
- The theory is extended from object discrimination to discrimination between kinds and types.
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