The Ethics and Epistemology of Vaccine Hesitancy

Philosophers have long discussed the ethical and epistemological issues raised by vaccines, but issues have assumed new significance since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This volume focuses on vaccine hesitancy as a case of deep overlap of ethics and epistemology.

Vaccine hesitancy stems from a range of concerns, many of which are fuelled by conspiracy theories, misunderstandings about vaccine technology, or misconceptions about scientific research. While some grounds for vaccine hesitancy are clearly irrational, other concerns appear more reasonable. This is the first volume to offer a comprehensive exploration of the interplay of epistemological and ethical dimensions of vaccine hesitancy from a post-COVID perspective. The chapters in the first part of the volume reflect on the epistemology of vaccine hesitancy. They address issues related to trust and expertise, probability literacy, and epistemic justice. The second part covers the ethics of vaccine hesitancy and the implications for public policy. These chapters explore the moral implications of free riding, as well as the complex interplay between individual rights, public health, emergencies, and the collective good. Together, they help us to consider where the line between personal freedom and civic responsibility should be drawn.

The Ethics and Epistemology of Vaccine Hesitancy will be of interest to philosophers and graduate students working in epistemology, applied ethics, bioethics, philosophy of medicine, and political philosophy. It should also be relevant to public health practitioners and policy-makers.