Generics – Diversity Reading List

Leslie, Sarah-Jane. Carving up the Social World with Generics

2014, in: T. Lombrozo, J. Knobe, and S. Nichols (eds.) Oxford Studies in Experimental Philosophy Volume 1, Oxford University Press.

Categories: Generics, Metaphysics & Epistemology, Philosophy of Gender, Philosophy of Gender Race and Sexuality, Philosophy of Language, Philosophy of Race, Value Theory

Keywords: essentialism, generics, language, psychological essentialism, social cognition, social essentialism, stereotype, stereotype threat

Expand entry: Added by: Simon Fokt

Summary (Diversifying Syllabi): Leslie argues that generic language has an effect on social cognition. Specifically, generic language plays a role in the way small children develop concepts related to abilities, which facilitates the transmission and development of social prejudices.

Comment: This text can support classes on social cognition, the social nature of language, and essentialism (including social and psychological essentialism). It will also serve well as an introduction to generics in philosophy of language. In philosophy of gender and race classes it can offers a good illustration of how stereotypes are created.

Difficulty: Easy

Recommended use: Introductory reading

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