Science and priviledge

[laira314]

I hadn't understood until now that science isn't about knowledge or understanding but about power. I bought the myth.

I don't think the science I love really exists.

Comments

[logodaedaly]

I think this is where I recommend you read Feminist Epistemologies (Alcoff and Potter, eds.). :-)

Anyhow, I believe you're right (if I'm understanding you correctly), but then again, the church I love doesn't really exist, either. We fail to be radically loving in every possible way, and that's just counting those of us who try really, really hard and genuinely believe this stuff! The thing to do is to work to incarnate the ideals you believe in.

But do read the book I mentioned if you get the time. It was a real eye-opener for me. Another good critique of science-as-it-exists, though of scientism rather than privilege, is Mary Midgley's Evolution as a Religion. (It's not what it sounds -- Midgley is an evolution-believing atheist or agnostic. She is mostly critiquing Dawkins, E.O. Wilson, and other sociobiologists.)

[laira314]

I'm glad my male friends and boyfriends are around to tangibly remind me that some men are feminists too. Otherwise, I think I'd be glaring at every guy I met.

I'm also starting to understand why those who challenge power structures can look so flaky sometimes. If there is no channel through which to go, anger starts looking flaky sooner or later.

[khepa]

I would also suggest The Man of Reason: 'Male' and 'Female' in Western Philosophy By: Genevieve Lloyd.

[logodaedaly]

I've seen that cited a bunch of places -- ought to add it to my list.

[biolabchick]

Nope. It doesn't. I bought into it, as well.

[laira314]

When did you realize it?