E4 — Objectivity (with Sophie Veigl)

In this episode, we ask whether academic philosophy is facing a crisis of knowledge — and what that might mean for science.

What does objectivity really mean today? Is it a timeless ideal, or a set of established standards shaped by particular perspectives? If we all speak from our own positionality, can we ever be truly objective?

Our guest Sophie Veigl (University of Vienna) explores the idea that science doesn’t deliver truth as a finished product, but operates as a process — one that is reliable, yet not without weaknesses. Could philosophy play a stronger role within the sciences, helping to address structural problems and shift the conversation away from abstract ideals like “pure objectivity” and toward a more honest engagement with positionality?

Tune in for a conversation about knowledge, perspective, and whether rethinking objectivity might actually strengthen — rather than undermine — science.

This episode was produced by Jason Means and edited by Anni Räty. 

Music by Tuomo Tiisala and Gregor Greslehner.

Special thanks to Gregor Greslehner, Matt Dougherty, and Sophie Veigl.

Questions or comments? Write to kic@ceu.edu.