Epistemology of Group Disagreement

This book explores the nature and normativity of group disagreement, focusing on real-life disagreements within and between groups. It connects the literature on the ontology and epistemology of groups to explore intra- and inter-group disagreements across political, religious, social, and scientific issues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 24 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book brings together a diverse group of philosophers to explore the nature and normativity of group disagreement. While debates in the epistemology of disagreement have primarily focused on idealized cases of peer disagreement between individuals, the reality is that most real-life disagreements occur within and between groups. Ascribing views, beliefs, and judgments to groups is a common phenomenon that has been extensively researched in the literature on the ontology and epistemology of groups. The chapters in this volume aim to connect these literatures and investigate both intra- and inter-group disagreements. They apply their discussions to a wide range of political, religious, social, and scientific issues.

The Epistemology of Group Disagreement is a valuable resource for students and scholars engaged in social and applied epistemology, disagreement, and topics at the intersection of epistemology, ethics, and politics. It provides a comprehensive examination of the complexities and challenges associated with group disagreement, offering insights into the nature of different types of disagreements, the factors that contribute to them, and the ethical implications of engaging in group disagreement.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the distinction between intra- and inter-group disagreements. Intra-group disagreements occur within a group when members hold different views or beliefs on a particular issue. These disagreements can be influenced by factors such as social identity, cultural background, and personal experiences. Inter-group disagreements, on the other hand, occur between different groups, such as political parties, religious communities, or social movements. These disagreements can be driven by differences in ideology, values, or worldviews.

The book also examines the ethical implications of group disagreement. It explores the ways in which disagreements can be harmful or beneficial to individuals and society as a whole. For example, disagreements can lead to polarization and division, which can hinder social progress and compromise. However, disagreements can also be a source of innovation and creativity, as different groups bring different perspectives and ideas to the table.

The chapters in this volume offer a range of perspectives and approaches to the epistemology of group disagreement. They draw on a variety of philosophical traditions, including epistemology, ethics, political theory, and social psychology. The authors use a variety of methods, including case studies, theoretical analysis, and empirical research, to explore the nature and normativity of group disagreement.

One of the strengths of the book is its interdisciplinary approach. It brings together experts from different fields to explore the complex issues associated with group disagreement. This interdisciplinary approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the topic and enables scholars to draw on a range of insights and methodologies to address the challenges posed by group disagreement.

Another strength of the book is its accessibility. It is written in a clear and concise manner, making it accessible to students and scholars with a range of backgrounds and interests. The book includes a comprehensive bibliography and an index, which make it easy to locate relevant literature and research.

In conclusion, The Epistemology of Group Disagreement is a valuable resource for students and scholars working on social and applied epistemology, disagreement, and topics at the intersection of epistemology, ethics, and politics. It provides a comprehensive examination of the nature and normativity of group disagreement, offering insights into the factors that contribute to these disagreements, the ethical implications of engaging in group disagreement, and the potential for positive outcomes from these discussions. By bringing together a diverse group of philosophers and experts from different fields, the book offers a rich and interdisciplinary perspective on this important topic.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367077426