SCALES AND MAPS: A THEORY OF GOOD POLITENESS IN NON-IDEAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

This dissertation proposes a conceptualization of politeness that is good in non-ideal conditions: normative politeness. Normative politeness incorporates characteristic features of previously exiting conceptualizations of politeness, particularly accounts which stipulate that politeness includes (i) the use of etiquette, (ii) the display of manners, and (iii) the well-styling of behavior. However, normative politeness adds a fourth feature, namely (iv) a highly-contextual judgement call. The judgment call is unique insofar as it demands that the agent in question practice moral acuity in regard to relevant moral priorities, then harmonize their behavior to reflect those priorities in question. A central question is how this augmented account should operationalize in non-ideal, unjust conditions – particularly amidst cognitive barriers created by epistemic oppression. The project aims to provide a clearer image of said auxiliary responsibilities, centering work by Cheshire Calhoun on the need to create “new forms” of politeness and civility. This project draws from more modern philosophers of politeness such as Amy Olberding, Karen Stohr, Judith Martin, and Cheshire Calhoun, while connecting core concepts to social epistemologists such as Charles Mills, Miranda Fricker, Kristie Dotson, and Olufemi Taiwo to shed light on the epistemically normative principles needed to render normative politeness a live option.