Facts & Norms

This book explores the role of non-normative facts in political philosophy, such as generosity and scarcity of resources, and the methodological assumptions needed to address them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Political philosophers often overlook the significance of non-normative facts, such as the generosity and scarcity of resources, in their normative theorizing. However, in light of recent debates among idealists, non-idealists, and realists in political theory, the relationship between facts and norms is gaining increasing attention among political theorists and philosophers. This book explores various aspects of this broad question, shedding light on the relevance and methodological considerations of incorporating non-normative facts into normative theorizing.

The chapters in this book were originally published in the journal "Critical Review of International Social and Political Philosophy." The authors examine different dimensions of this topic, including the types of facts that are relevant to normative theory, the methodological assumptions required to incorporate non-normative facts into political philosophy, and the implications of such an approach.

One of the key arguments presented in the book is that non-normative facts can provide valuable insights into the nature of political phenomena and the factors that shape political outcomes. For example, studies of human generosity and scarcity of resources can help us understand why people engage in cooperative behaviors and why they may be reluctant to contribute to collective goods. By incorporating these facts into normative theorizing, political philosophers can develop more nuanced and empirically informed theories of political behavior and institutions.

However, the authors also recognize that incorporating non-normative facts into normative theorizing poses challenges. One of the main concerns is that non-normative facts may be subject to different interpretations and may not be universally applicable. Additionally, the use of non-normative facts may undermine the coherence and consistency of normative theories, as they may introduce new variables and assumptions that are difficult to justify or explain.

To address these challenges, the authors propose several methodological considerations for incorporating non-normative facts into normative theorizing. One approach is to develop a more pluralistic and interdisciplinary approach to political philosophy, drawing on insights from other fields such as psychology, economics, and sociology. This can help to ensure that non-normative facts are interpreted and analyzed in a rigorous and systematic manner.

Another approach is to develop a more nuanced and complex understanding of the relationship between facts and norms. This can involve exploring the ways in which non-normative facts can be used to challenge or refine normative theories, as well as the ways in which normative theories can be used to explain or justify non-normative facts.

Overall, the chapters in this book provide a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of non-normative facts in political philosophy. By exploring the relevance and methodological considerations of incorporating non-normative facts into normative theorizing, the authors offer insights into the potential for developing more empirically informed and nuanced theories of political behavior and institutions.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367548612