Conversation
Vice Epistemology; A Conversation with Yaser Mirdamadi
This conversation explores the concept of 'vice epistemology' and the role of intellectual vices in the formation of false beliefs. In this program, Yaser Mirdamadi discusses the relationship between ethics, belief, epistemic responsibility, and cognitive errors.
About this video
In this video, Yaser Mirdamadi introduces and examines vice epistemology; a branch of epistemology that, instead of focusing solely on truth, justification, or the structure of belief, pays attention to flawed intellectual character traits and habits. This conversation, with Omid Keshvari as academic secretary, was organized by Khane-ye Ashna.
The central focus of the discussion is how vices such as prejudice, self-deception, intellectual laziness, dogmatism, unfairness, and disregard for evidence can affect our judgments. From this perspective, epistemic error is not merely a matter of a lack of information, but is sometimes related to the quality of one's intellectual character and the way we engage with evidence and opponents.
The importance of this discussion lies in linking epistemology with ethics and public life. Vice epistemology can contribute to a better understanding of disagreements, political and religious judgments, public discourse, and individual responsibility in forming beliefs.
