Philosophy has long been concerned with understanding the reasons behind the emergence, flourishing, and decline of different philosophical views. However, recent years have seen an increasing interest in externalist explanations within the field. Externalist explanations focus on contextual factors rather than internal logical arguments, taking into account the broader social, economic, political, and institutional influences on philosophical ideas. This shift towards externalist explanations raises intriguing questions about the nature of philosophy, its relationship with other disciplines, and the emergence of a potential subfield within the profession.
The Rise of Externalist Explanations:
There is a growing consensus among philosophers that externalist explanations have gained prominence in recent years. Scholars have observed an increase in the production of and disciplinary receptiveness to this approach. Externalist explanations offer a more comprehensive understanding of philosophy by considering the practical benefits conferred by philosophical views, their alignment with pedagogical practices, and the social and political contexts within which they gain prominence.
Examples of Externalist Work in Philosophy:
Numerous philosophers associated with philosophy departments have contributed to the development of externalist explanations. One notable example is Mazviita Chirimuuta’s article, “Critical Realism and Technocracy – RW Sellars’ Radical Philosophy in its Context.” Chirimuuta explores the external factors that shaped Sellars’ philosophy, highlighting the influence of contextual factors beyond the internal logic of his arguments. This work exemplifies how externalist explanations shed light on the historical development of philosophical ideas.
The Emergence of a Subfield:
The rise of externalist explanations in philosophy raises the question of whether this trend signifies the emergence of a distinct subfield or area of specialization. Externalist explanations often require interdisciplinary skills and knowledge that extend beyond traditional philosophical training. Recognizing externalist explanations as a subfield would acknowledge the unique contributions and methodologies involved, fostering further development and collaboration within the discipline.
Philosophy Catching Up:
The increasing prominence of externalist explanations in philosophy can be seen as a way for the discipline to catch up with other humanities disciplines. Historians of science, for example, have long embraced externalist explanations, considering the social and political contexts that shape scientific movements. By adopting externalist approaches, philosophy can benefit from a more holistic understanding of its own development and engage in fruitful interdisciplinary dialogue.
The Implications of Externalist Explanations:
The rise of externalist explanations in philosophy has significant implications for the field. It challenges the traditional emphasis on internal logical arguments and highlights the importance of contextual factors in shaping philosophical ideas. This shift invites philosophers to consider a broader range of influences, encouraging a more nuanced and comprehensive analysis of philosophical thought.
Conclusion:
As philosophy evolves, the rise of externalist explanations offers a fresh perspective on the development of philosophical ideas. While internal logical arguments remain crucial, externalist explanations provide a more holistic understanding of philosophy’s social, economic, political, and institutional dimensions. Recognizing externalist explanations as a subfield within philosophy could foster interdisciplinary collaborations and enrich the discipline’s methodologies. By embracing externalist approaches, philosophy can continue to evolve, engaging with a wider range of perspectives and contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of human thought.
Leave a Reply