Being rational is valuable, at least in part, because it is a reliable means of getting true beliefs. But there is a puzzle about our use of the terms ‘rational’ and ‘irrational’. Sometimes we are inclined to call beliefs ‘rational’ even when they are not formed by a reliable (truth-conducive) process. Conversely, we are also inclined to call some beliefs ‘irrational’ even when they are formed by a reliable process. This is strange. Why don’t we call all beliefs formed by unreliable processes ‘irrational’? And why don’t we call all beliefs formed by reliable processes ‘rational’? For the final P4L of the semester, we’ll unpack this puzzle and consider a potential solution: epistemic communism. (photo: Buster Keaton)

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What is P4L?
Students, professors, and other philosophy enthusiasts close-read and discuss a few great passages of philosophy.

Who's invited?
No preparation or previous knowledge of philosophy is needed. Everyone is welcome!

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