The Epistemology of Groups

Jennifer Lackey explores the epistemology of groups, examining how group beliefs and knowledge arise from individual members' actions while addressing group agency and responsibility in moral and social contexts.

In The Epistemology of Groups, Jennifer Lackey offers a comprehensive examination of how groups form beliefs and knowledge, and the implications this has for understanding group agency and responsibility. She posits that the beliefs and knowledge of a group are intrinsically linked to the actions and capabilities of its individual members, while also being influenced by group-level normative standards. This exploration is particularly relevant in contexts where groups are held accountable for significant moral and legal actions, such as the responsibilities attributed to the Trump Administration regarding the separation of families at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Lackey delves into the debate between deflationary and inflationary theorists concerning group phenomena. Deflationary theorists argue that group behaviors can be fully explained by the individual states of their members, while inflationary theorists contend that groups possess distinct characteristics that set them apart from their members. Lackey challenges both perspectives, asserting that groups cannot be entirely reduced to their individual components, nor can they be seen as having independent minds. Instead, she presents a nuanced view that recognizes the interdependence of group and individual dynamics.

Through her framework, Lackey illustrates how group phenomena—such as belief, justification, and knowledge—are shaped by the actions and potential of individual members, while also adhering to collective normative requirements. This approach facilitates a more accurate assessment of responsibility, allowing for a clearer understanding of how accountability should be distributed between groups and their members. Ultimately, The Epistemology of Groups provides valuable insights into the complexities of group epistemology and the ethical implications of group actions.