• BA Studies: Mathematics, Iakob Gogebashvili Telavi State University, 2012-2015
• MA Studies: Philosophy, Ilia State University, 2015-2018

We become more and more dependent on science for our political and practical decisions. But the more we rely on science, the more skepticism there is toward it. Instead of being the means of effective governance, science is becoming the crack in our democracies. Some lament the scientization of politics and the loss of democratic control. Others see general skepticism and populism towards science as an erosion of scientific authority, which is urgently in need of repair. These worries seem contradictory; the solution to one problem leads to the exaggeration of another. Which is the real problem, and which one should we solve? I believe there are elements of truth in both worries, and the proper democratic framework for scientific authority can solve both, the problem of skepticism towards science and the problem of technocracy. My project is concerned with an attempt to develop such a conception of scientific authority. I rely on approaches from political philosophy and ethical theory, as well as from social epistemology and the general philosophy of science.

Participation in this doctoral program is first and foremost an opportunity to fully dedicate myself to my academic work. I hope that it will give me the possibility to deepen my knowledge of significant traditions in western philosophy. In addition, I’m certain that while working on my doctoral thesis, I will be able to receive valuable feedback from my colleagues and professors.