University of California Irvine Wk 7 Phenomenon of Constitutive Dependence Discussion

PHIL 2 Puzzles and Paradoxes Fall 2020

Week 7 Quiz

Explain the phenomenon of constitutive dependence as employed by Ritchie. How does constitutive dependence differ from mere causal dependence? Illustrate the notion of constitutive dependence.

Discussion

In Ritchie’s account of social structures, they can relate to intentions in two ways. On the one hand, a structure itself can be intentionally instantiated (example: UC Irvine, or the US Supreme Court). On the other hand, structures can be unintentionally instantiated. For this week, explain in your own words the distinction between these two kinds of structures and evaluate whether it is possible to there being social structures that are potentially harmful and yet unintentionally instantiated. Don’t forget to include your own examples when answering the question and commenting on your peers’ answers.