The Epistemology and Morality of Human Kinds

The concept of natural kinds is widely used in philosophy, but human beings are also a subject of scientific study. In "The Epistemology and Morality of Human Kinds," Marion Godman defends the idea of human kinds, arguing that they are a result of ongoing historical reproduction and deserving of scientific study due to their role in explaining our identity, injustice, and the emergence of group rights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 114 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The concept of natural kinds is a fundamental and widely debated topic in philosophy. It suggests that the classifications and taxonomies employed by science correspond to the real kinds found in nature. However, natural kinds are often contrasted with the idea of kinds in the human and social sciences, which are typically viewed as social constructs, characterized by changing norms and resisting scientific reduction. While human beings are indeed subjects of scientific study, it raises the question of whether they fall into corresponding kinds of their own.

In her book "The Epistemology and Morality of Human Kinds," Marion Godman explores the concept of human kinds. She begins by examining the scientific use and nature of human kinds, considering the arguments of key philosophers such as Ian Hacking, John Searle, Richard Boyd, and Ruth Millikan. Through the examples of gender, ethnic minorities, and Buddhism, Godman argues that human kinds are the result of ongoing historical reproduction, primarily driven by pre-existing cultural models and social learning.

One of the novel arguments presented by Godman is that human kinds are "multiply projectable." She suggests that human kinds can be projected onto various levels, such as biological, cultural, and social, and that they are deserving of scientific study not in spite of, but because of their role in explaining our identity, injustice, and the emergence of group rights.

Godman's approach challenges the reductionism characteristic of research about human kinds. She argues that human kinds are complex and multifaceted, and that they cannot be reduced to a single level or aspect. Instead, she advocates for a more holistic and interdisciplinary approach to studying human kinds, which considers their biological, cultural, and social dimensions.

Godman's book offers valuable insights into the concept of human kinds and their role in shaping our understanding of the world. It challenges the traditional view of human kinds as social constructs and highlights the importance of recognizing the diversity and complexity of human experiences. By advocating for the scientific study of human kinds, Godman seeks to promote a more inclusive and equitable understanding of human rights.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367653187