Hinge Epistemology: Why Choose?

Abstract

[eng] This paper explores a path towards the resolution of the existing stalemate between competing theories in hinge epistemology. Initially, it is diagnosed that the stalemate stems from a theoretical assumption regarding the nature of hinges and a methodological assumption regarding how hinges ought to be investigated. Specifically, it is assumed in the literature about hinges that the features of hinges display a theoretical unity to be explained by one global theory. Subsequently, it is shown that by questioning both assumptions it is possible to make progress towards resolving the stalemate. Accordingly, a new approach to hinge epistemology is developed where hinges are said to exhibit diverse features to be clarified by a variety of centres of variation. On this account, different hinge theories are rectified to complementary centres of variation by expressly restricting them to the cases with the hinges that the theories can clarify, allowing us to move away from the stalemate and towards a more nuanced account of hinges.