Ideals and Ideal Theory: The Problem of Methodological Conservatism

Abstract

A well-known problem of reflective equilibrium methods is how to avoid or at least correct for a methodological conservatism or, more positively formulated, how to guarantee adequate critical input. If in the process we use only our own convictions, of whatever kind, how can we hope to do more than systematising our prejudices? In other philosophical theories, the common solution is to suggest that there is some Archimedean point or locus of certainty, but this solution is clearly not available for reflective equilibrium methods.

I would like to thank Marcel Verweij en Anton Vedder for their helpful criticisms of an earlier draft.