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Uses of Value Judgments in Science: A General Argument, with Lessons from a Case Study of Feminist Research on Divorce
Article first published online: 9 JAN 2009
DOI: 10.1111/j.1527-2001.2004.tb01266.x
2004 by Hypatia, Inc.
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How to Cite
ANDERSON, E. (2004), Uses of Value Judgments in Science: A General Argument, with Lessons from a Case Study of Feminist Research on Divorce. Hypatia, 19: 1–24. doi: 10.1111/j.1527-2001.2004.tb01266.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 9 JAN 2009
- Article first published online: 9 JAN 2009
- Abstract
- Article
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- Cited By
The underdetermination argument establishes that scientists may use political values to guide inquiry, without providing criteria for distinguishing legitimate from illegitimate guidance. This paper supplies such criteria. Analysis of the confused arguments against value-laden science reveals the fundamental criterion of illegitimate guidance: when value judgments operate to drive inquiry to a predetermined conclusion. A case study of feminist research on divorce reveals numerous legitimate ways that values can guide science without violating this standard.