Philosophical Argument and Wicked Problems

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-2018

Keywords

bioethics, wicked problems, Thomas Nagel, applied philosophy, metaphilosophy

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1177/0048393117740842

Abstract

This comment on Frodeman and Briggle’s Socrates Tenured raises questions about the project of applying philosophy or philosophical skills to wicked problems such as terrorism. By definition, these problems cannot be solved by appeal to principles, but involve conflicting values and goals. The societal problems to which the book refers are of this kind. The argument of the book vacillates between recognizing this and asserting some sort of special disciplinary authority for philosophy in the face of these problems. Examples illustrate the dilemma.

Was this content written or created while at USF?

Yes

Citation / Publisher Attribution

Philosophy of the Social Sciences, v. 48, issue 1, p. 71-79

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