Epistemologizing Technology: On the Technological Scaffolding of Epistemic Exchanges and Violence

Abstract

Bringing together Philosophy of Technology and Social Epistemology, this paper investigates how technology can engender worlds and affective atmospheres that structure epistemic exchanges. In addition to mediating the perception and actions of the speaker and audience, the materiality of technology can contribute to the persistence of identity prejudices, the reliability of ignorance, and the recalcitrance of maladjusted epistemological systems. In particular, this paper critically analyzes how technology such as Confederate monuments can consequently provide material scaffolding for epistemic violence.