Autonomy Plus Heterodoxy: On the Possibility of Deviations in Science

Abstract

The epistemology of virtues is a trend in analytical social epistemology, whose representatives synthesize philosophical theories of morality with a normative approach to solving theoretical and cognitive problems. However, the virtue epistemology in its classical variants of reliabilism (E. Sosa) and responsibilism (L. Zagsebski) does not cope with the paradox of moral autonomy. It fails to make neither a convincing distinction between virtues and vices, nor to substantiate the value of heterodoxy in scientific inquiry. This is largely due to the gap between the virtue epistemology and the philosophy of science and technology: real scientific practice and the history of science are hardly involved in epistemological analysis. In fact, the ethical code of science, being inextricably linked with situations of choice and violations of moral norms, thereby implies deviation. This is illustrated by a case from the history of psychosurgery (lobotomy), in which imperfect theories, insufficient empirical evidence, economic interest, political circumstances, orientation to success in science and medical practice are intertwined. Gross violations of the norms of scientific honesty in this situation are accompanied, at the same time, by the formation of a stable scientific ethos that counteracts such violations. At the same time, other ethical requirements are formulated, in particular, freedom of scientific research and scientifically based decisions. In this regard, the topic of tenure in science and education, which makes it possible to guarantee a high level of independence from short-term administrative decisions, is of particular relevance. It is not surprising that neoliberal policies in the field of science and education are aimed at reducing tenure and increasing the dependence of intellectuals on managers. Under these conditions, there is a growth of the scientific precariat — a socially unprotected, but free new class, for which the highest scientific value and virtue is heterodoxy and the possibility of deviation from generally accepted standards.