Epistemic Intimidation and Illegitimate Value Influences in Science

This chapter addresses the increasing attacks on scientists, highlighting their detrimental effects on the production of scientific knowledge. Beginning with historical antecedents dating back to the 1950s, we introduce the notion of epistemic intimidation. Drawing from Holman and Wilholt&s;s “new demarcation problem” as well as from virtue epistemology, we argue that epistemic intimidation hinders scientific practice by impeding the exercise and cultivation of epistemic virtues, thereby promoting illegitimate value influence. We illustrate this with three examples: overcaution, the chilling effect, and the loss of talents. Finally, we propose strategies to combat and mitigate these pervasive intimidation tactics. Readers may be interested in these Handbook chapters as well: Pedro Bravo, “Values and Industry-Funded Research”; Rebecca Korf and Cailin O&s;Connor, “Networks and Values”; Jamie Shaw, “The Values of Science Funding Institutions.”