REFLECTIONS ON THE POSSIBILITY OF PLURAL EPISTEMOLOGIES: “EXPERTISE” AND “TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE”

Abstract

This reflection aims to investigate the possibility of thinking plural epistemologies in contexts of suffering, using standpoint epistemology as its guiding framework. To initiate this inquiry, I will first introduce the concept of standpoint epistemology by clarifying its two main commitments. Next, I will ground this reflection in a concrete context by examining a specific case within the realm of asylum seeking. Finally, I will clarify the concept of plural epistemologies and highlight its importance in uncovering some of the foundational structures of injustice. The challenge, then, is to develop a concept of truth that is plural, pragmatic and situated—one that is ultimately more in line with the complexity of reality.