Calibrated conciliationism

Definition

Calibrated conciliationism is an epistemological view that suggests individuals should adjust their beliefs in response to peer disagreement, but the extent of this adjustment should be proportional to the perceived reliability of the peers involved. This approach recognizes that not all disagreements hold the same weight and emphasizes a nuanced response rather than a blanket concession of one's beliefs. By calibrating responses based on the perceived credibility of those one disagrees with, it aims to strike a balance between dogmatism and radical skepticism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calibrated conciliationism posits that the degree to which one should adjust their beliefs depends on how credible and knowledgeable the disagreeing peer is perceived to be.
2. This theory addresses criticisms of both extreme dogmatism and excessive skepticism by offering a middle ground that considers the reliability of sources in disputes.
3. Proponents argue that calibrated conciliationism helps avoid unwarranted belief changes while still promoting a rational response to differing opinions.
4. The approach encourages critical assessment of one's peers, fostering an environment where individuals can thoughtfully engage with disagreements rather than defaulting to outright acceptance or rejection.
5. Calibrated conciliationism supports the idea that belief adjustment is not just about conforming but about making informed choices about when and how much to revise one's views.

Review Questions

• How does calibrated conciliationism differ from more traditional views on dealing with peer disagreement?
  • Calibrated conciliationism differs from traditional views by emphasizing that not all peer disagreements require the same level of belief adjustment. While traditional conciliatory views might advocate for simply reducing confidence in one's beliefs regardless of the peers' credibility, calibrated conciliationism suggests that individuals should consider how reliable and knowledgeable their peers are before deciding how much to change their beliefs. This nuance allows for a more tailored response to disagreements, balancing openness with critical evaluation.
• In what ways does calibrated conciliationism contribute to our understanding of epistemic humility in discussions about belief revision?
  • Calibrated conciliationism enhances our understanding of epistemic humility by highlighting the importance of recognizing the limits of our knowledge while still critically assessing others' viewpoints. It promotes a mindset where individuals acknowledge their potential fallibility but also emphasizes evaluating the reliability of disagreeing peers before adjusting beliefs. This approach encourages a thoughtful engagement with differing opinions, allowing for humility without succumbing to radical skepticism or blind adherence to others' views.
• Evaluate the implications of calibrated conciliationism on how we navigate disagreements in diverse fields such as science and ethics.
  • Calibrated conciliationism has significant implications for navigating disagreements across various fields like science and ethics. In science, where evidence and expert opinions frequently conflict, this approach encourages scientists to weigh the credibility of their peers carefully, fostering productive discourse rather than hasty consensus or dismissal. In ethical discussions, calibrated responses can promote understanding and dialogue among differing moral perspectives without compromising personal values. Overall, it provides a framework that balances confidence in one's convictions with an openness to learning from others, potentially leading to more constructive outcomes in contentious debates.

Related terms

peer disagreement: A situation where two or more individuals, who are considered equals in knowledge or expertise, hold opposing views on a particular issue.

epistemic humility: The acknowledgment of the limits of one's knowledge and understanding, which can lead to openness to differing viewpoints and the potential for belief revision.

conciliatory view: An epistemological perspective that advocates for revising one's beliefs in light of peer disagreement, often suggesting that one should take into account the opposing views of equally informed individuals.