Collective Virtue Epistemology and the Value of Identity Diversity

Abstract

Discussions of diversity tend to paint a mixed picture of the practical and epistemic value of diversity. While there are expansive and detailed accounts of the value of cognitive diversity, explorations of identity diversity typically focus on its value as a source or cause of cognitive diversity. The resulting picture on which identity diversity only possesses a derivative practical and epistemic value is unsatisfactory and fails to account for some of its central epistemic benefits. In response, I propose that collective virtue epistemology offers theoretical models that can further our understanding of the benefits of diversity. And I offer a case study to illustrate how this approach could be used to explore the logic of the identity diversity bonus.Philosophical discussions of diversity are often focused on ethical and political issues. After all, advocating for diversity is necessary to address social inequalities and inequities. 1 While acknowledging the importance of the ethical dimension to any comprehensive exploration of the value of diversity, my discussion will set these concerns aside. Instead, when I talk about the value of diversity, I will be referring to the practical and epistemic value of diversity with a particular focus on the latter. Thus, my interest is in how the diversity of groups, communities, and institutions could be valuable for achieving our practical and epistemic aims. 2

Knowledge, Expertise and Science Advice During COVID-19: In Search of Epistemic Justice for the ‘Wicked’ Problems of Post-Normal Times

“…Diverse groups not only have a greater repertoire of cognitive tools to perform knowledge-intensive tasks (Page 2017 ), but also the collective epistemic virtues (epistemic conscientiousness, open-mindedness, etc.) necessary in situations where thoughtful deliberation and shared understanding are key (Kim 2022 ).…”