Collaborative Practice, Epistemic Dependence and Opacity: The case of space telescope data processing

Abstract

Wagenknecht recently introduced a conceptual (yet non-exhaustive) distinction between translucent and opaque epistemic dependence in order to better describe the diversity of the relations of epistemic dependence between scientists in collaborative research practice. In line with her analysis, I will further elaborate on the different kinds of expertise that are specific to instrument- and computer-assisted practices, and will identify potential sources of opacity. To achieve this, I focus on a contemporary case of scientific knowledge creation, i.e., space telescope data processing.