Functional Hypotheses and the Engaged Point of View

Speakers:

• Matthieu Queloz (University of Bern) - Keynote
• Lilith Mace (University of Glasgow)
• Alexander Prescott-Couch (Oxford University)
• Angie O'Sullivan (University of Glasgow)
• Michael Hannon (University of Nottingham)
• Catarina Dutilh Novaes (online; VU University Amsterdam)

Conference Topic

A recent popular trend proposes that we can make progress in disciplines such as ethics, epistemology, aesthetics, and modality by turning attention away from an investigation of their apparent objects (goodness, knowledge, etc.), towards the question of what purposes might be served by thinking in terms of their characteristic concepts. As part of this trend, we find hypotheses concerning the functional role the concepts of goodness, knowledge, necessity, and beauty, among others. But how should we understand the notion of functional role contained within such hypotheses? And how should those who actively deploy those concepts react to such hypotheses? These and related questions have recently begun to be explored in general ways that bridge boundaries between philosophical subdisciplines (for example, in M Queloz’ 2021 book The Practical Origin of Ideas). This conference aims to further this inter-sub-disciplinary approach.

The aims of the conference, then, are threefold. First, to explore diverse ways of understanding the notion of "function" used in functional hypotheses (concerning a concept, set of concepts, or conceptual/linguistic practice). Second, to explore the impacts that distinct types of functional hypotheses can and should have on the perspectives of the engaged users of those concepts. Third, to pursue these first two aims in an inter-sub-disciplinary way that builds bridges between philosophy of science, philosophical methodology, (meta)epistemology, metaethics, modality, philosophy of language, aesthetics, and other philosophical subdisciplines.

Bursaries are available for graduate students, please contact neil.sinclair@nottingham.ac.uk.

Accessibility

• All conference spaces are fully accessible and rooms for conference sessions have hearing loop fitted (all speakers will be asked to use microphones). Disabled parking is available nearby.
• Conference venue will include a quiet (low-sensory environment) space, and seating will be available in communal areas.
• Delegates are encouraged to use our AccessAble app: https://www.accessable.co.uk/university-of-nottingham
• Please feel free to contact the conference organiser (neil.sinclair@nottingham.ac.uk) for any accessibility queries.
• Accessibility requirements can be noted during the delegate registration process.
• Online attendance available.
• Delegate pack will include detailed information regarding the venue, transport links, emergency contact etc.