Expertise: A Philosophical Introduction

About the Book

Expertise is a central feature of modern life. We rely on experts to guide us in making decisions about our health, our finances, and our political choices. But what is expertise, exactly? And how can we tell who is a genuine expert?

In this book, Jamie Carlin Watson offers a philosophical examination of the nature and value of expertise. Drawing on a wide range of examples from medicine, law, and policy, Watson argues that expertise is not simply a matter of having knowledge or skills. It is also about having the ability to apply that knowledge and those skills to the specific problems that we face.

Watson also discusses the importance of trust and credibility in our relationships with experts. We must be able to trust that experts are competent and reliable, and that they have our best interests at heart. In a world where misinformation and disinformation are rampant, it is more important than ever to be able to distinguish between genuine experts and those who merely claim to be experts.

Expertise: A Philosophical is an essential read for anyone who wants to understand the role of expertise in modern life. It is a timely and thought-provoking book that will change the way you think about experts and the role they play in society.

Reviews

“A brilliant and timely examination of the nature of expertise. Watson’s insights are essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the role of experts in modern life.” — Steven Pinker, author of Rationality

“A nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the concept of expertise. Watson’s analysis is both rigorous and accessible, making this book an essential resource for anyone interested in the role of experts in society.” — Cass R. Sunstein, author of How Change Happens

“A timely and important book. Watson’s discussion of the nature and value of expertise is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the role of experts in modern life.” — John Mikhail, author of Elements of Moral Cognition

About the Author

Jamie Carlin Watson is Professor of Philosophy at the University of California, San Diego. She is the author of several books, including The Epistemology of Disagreement (2016) and The Value of Knowledge (2020).