-
Born July 13th, 1944, Helen Longino is an American Philosopher and a central figure in feminist epistemology and social epistemology. She holds a BA from Barnard College, An MA from the University of Sussex, and a PhD from John Hopkins University.
-
In 1990, Helen Longino published her first book, "Science as Social Knowledge". In her first book, Longino argued that social values within the human context of science are crucial for the justification of scientific knowledge. She argued that data from scientists is not evidence for or against hypotheses but is determined by human beliefs and assumptions. She also highlighted the logical gap between evidence and theories.
-
In 2002, Longino published her second book, "The Fate of Knowledge", which explored and attempted to reconcile the accounts of knowledge of philosophers and sociologists of science.
-
In 2002, Longinos second book, "The Fate of Knowledge", received the Robert K. Merton Professional Award for Best Book from the Section of Science, Knowledge, and Technology, and the American Sociological Association.
-
In 2013, Longino's third book, "Studying Human Behavior: How Scientists Investigate Aggression and Sexuality", was published. Longino explores five scientific approaches to human aggression and sexuality, arguing that they are not reducible to a single perspective. She suggests that scientific research can be more useful as a guide for public policymakers if the plurality of different approaches to knowledge is acknowledged.
-
In 2014, Longinos third and most recent book, "Studying Human Behavior", was awarded the Best Book in Feminist Philosophy Prize, by the Women's Caucus of the Philosophy of Science Association.
-
In 2016, Longino was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
-
Longino is elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Sciences 2018
-
Helen's contributions often focus on the social aspects of scientific inquiry, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusivity in producing reliable knowledge. Longino's work challenges traditional views of objectivity, arguing that scientific knowledge is socially constructed and influenced by various factors such as cultural values, power dynamics, and social norms. She advocates for a more collaborative and inclusive approach to scientific inquiry.