Epistemic Values: Collected Papers in Epistemology by Linda Trinkaus Zagzebski

Description

Epistemic Values: Collected Papers in Epistemology by Linda Trinkaus Zagzebski is a comprehensive collection of her most influential and thought-provoking essays, spanning decades of contributions to the field of epistemology. Zagzebski, a leading figure in contemporary philosophy, is known for her pioneering work in virtue epistemology, the study of intellectual virtues, and the intersection of epistemic and moral values. This volume brings together key papers that chart the development of her thought and offer deep insights into central issues concerning knowledge, justification, and the role of values in epistemic practices. In this collection, Zagzebski advances the idea that epistemology cannot be fully understood without considering the values that underlie our intellectual practices. She argues that epistemic virtues—like intellectual courage, honesty, and conscientiousness—are essential for acquiring knowledge and understanding. Her work bridges the gap between traditional analytic epistemology and virtue theory, showing how the cultivation of good intellectual character is critical for achieving epistemic goals. One of the major themes in Epistemic Values is the shift from a focus on belief as the fundamental unit of epistemic assessment to a focus on the agent and their intellectual character. Zagzebski defends the idea that intellectual virtues are analogous to moral virtues and that a virtuous agent is more likely to arrive at truth, understanding, and wisdom. She also critically examines reliabilism and evidentialism, offering virtue-based alternatives that emphasize the role of agency and responsibility in epistemic life. The volume also includes essays on epistemic authority, the nature of understanding, epistemic motivation, and the relationship between epistemic and ethical values. Zagzebski addresses complex issues such as how epistemic norms are justified, the role of trust in epistemic communities, and the ideal of intellectual autonomy. Epistemic Values: Collected Papers in Epistemology is an essential resource for anyone interested in contemporary epistemology, especially those exploring virtue epistemology and the role of values in knowledge practices. Zagzebski’s essays are marked by clarity, originality, and philosophical depth, offering both rigorous argumentation and a humane vision of the intellectual life. This collection not only reflects her major contributions to the field but also invites readers to think more deeply about the ethical dimensions of our pursuit of knowledge and understanding.