Scientific Pluralism, Epistemic Diversity, and Progress in Science

Workshop “Scientific Pluralism, Epistemic Diversity, and Progress in Science”

Workshop Date: 27.03. – 28.03.2025
Location: University of Wupppertal
Bergische Universität Wuppertal
Glanzstoffhaus, 6th Floor
Kasinostraße 19 – 21
42103 Wuppertal, Germany

Submission Deadline: 15.11.2024
Notification of Acceptance: 15.12.2024

The idea that science should converge on a single, ultimate truth has become contested as the dominant view in the academic world; scientific pluralism has gained wide acceptance. However, these discussions have become so rich and entangled that now we can speak of a confusing “plurality of [scientific] pluralisms” (Wylie 2015). The overall goal of this workshop is to examine and clarify different ideas of scientific pluralism.

While proponents of scientific pluralism argue that pluralism offers a range of epistemic benefits which are conducive to scientific progress (Chang, 2012, 2022), pluralism not only comes with benefits but also with costs (e.g., Lari and Mäki 2024). This raises the question of the conditions under which pluralism contributes to scientific progress and those under which it may impede it. In addition to its role in promoting progress, the relationship between pluralism and the social and institutional organisation of science is also a subject of growing debate. Given that science is significantly shaped by social values (Longino 1990), scientific pluralism is increasingly discussed in the context of social and epistemic diversity as a crucial element for objective and inclusive knowledge production. One of the primary subjects to be addressed is that of how diverse research groups can fruitfully collaborate in order to foster scientific progress, and what part institutions play in this process.

The workshop investigates the complex relationship between scientific pluralism, epistemic diversity and scientific progress, both theoretically and through the examination of case studies. The overall goal is to discuss whether pluralism hinders or contributes to progress, and to explore the roles of institutional and social structures in this dynamic. A particular focus is put on the social sciences, with an emphasis on the fields of psychology and economics, but case studies from any other field of science are very welcome.

Workshop Themes and Questions:

We invite submissions that address, but are not limited to, the following questions and themes:

1. Pluralism and Scientific Progress:
   • Under what specific conditions does pluralism contribute to scientific progress, and in what contexts might it impede progress?
   • How do different forms of pluralism (such as methodological, theoretical, and epistemic) affect the course of scientific progress across various disciplines?
     • What kind of progress are we talking about in relation to scientific pluralism?
2. Epistemic Diversity:
   • What is the link between epistemic and social diversity and (value) pluralism?
   • How does epistemic diversity within research teams and scientific communities influence the generation of knowledge?
   • What are the benefits and challenges of fostering epistemic diversity in scientific research, particularly in the social sciences?
3. Social Organization and Institutional Structures:
   • What roles do social organization and institutional structures play in fostering or hindering pluralism and epistemic diversity in scientific research?
   • What institutional measures can be implemented to overcome barriers and promote a more inclusive and cooperative scientific environment?
4. Case Studies:
   • Which scientific fields, e.g. in the social sciences, are particularly interesting for investigating the relationship between pluralism, epistemic diversity, and progress? What lessons can be learned from historical and current examples of pluralistic approaches in the various scientific fields?
   • What lessons can be learned from historical and current examples where plurality seems to be lacking?

Submission Guidelines:

We welcome submissions from scholars at all career stages and specially encourage PhD students and early career scholars to submit their work. Abstracts should be no longer than 500 words, including references, and must be prepared for anonymous review. Please send your abstract (300-500 words) in PDF format to [email protected] by 15.11.2024.

Key Dates:

• Submission Deadline: 15.11.2024
• Notification of Acceptance: 15.12.2025
• Workshop Date: 27.-28.3.2025

Organizing Committee:

• Jeremias Düring, University of Wuppertal
• Anastasiia Lazutkina, University of Wuppertal
• Charlotte Constanze Poller, University of Wuppertal

Keynote Speakers:

• Anna Alexandrova (University of Cambridge)
• Paul Hoyningen-Huene (Leibniz University Hanover)
• Inkeri Koskinen (University of Helsinki)
• David Ludwig (Wageningen University & Research)

Please note that we have limited funds available for a travel grant for early career researchers. If you require financial assistance for your travel expenses, please indicate this on your application so that we can try to make arrangements.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]

We look forward to receiving your submissions and to a stimulating a productive workshop!