Seminar: Special Topics in Philosophy (410-0-2)

Topic

The Contested Ideal of Value-Freedom

Instructors

Mark Alznauer
847/491-2559
Kresge 3-417

Meeting Info

Kresge 3438 Philosophy Sem. Rm: Thurs 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Should the study of society be value-free, and is that even possible? Starting from Max Weber's famous defense of Wertfreiheit (value freedom), this course examines debates about the fact/value distinction throughout the Twentieth Century, including readings drawn from natural right theory (Strauss), critical theory (Adorno and Habermas), hermeneutics (Taylor), pragmatism (Putnam), and feminist philosophy of science (Longino and Anderson).

Learning Objectives

Understand the best arguments for and against the idea of value-free social science.

Class Materials (Required)

Reading Materials: These will be made available through canvas.

One book must be purchased: The Collapse of the Fact/Value Dichotomy and Other Essays, Hilary Putnam (Harvard University Press) 978-0674013803.