The Eradication of Smallpox: Lessons for Epistemology and Politics
1 : Department of philosophy, University of Toronto
* : Corresponding author
The eradication of smallpox was one of humanity's greatest achievements. In spite of many cultures, religions, and divergent approaches to treating the disease, the world as a whole brought about this spectacular result. A number of philosophical questions arise concerning just how this was done, both epistemic and political. Contemporary analytic philosophers and social constructivists seem largely incapable of understanding this major event. I will try to say why and to also try to shed some light on future projects of a similar nature.
