The Grammar of Indoctrination: Semantic Limits of Liberal Epistemology

Philosophics — Philosophical and Political Ramblings · Feb 9, 2026 · 42m

This research draft by Bry Willis challenges the liberal epistemological view that indoctrination can be resolved through critical thinking and rational dialogue. Willis argues that such frameworks, exemplified by the work of Chris Ranalli, fail because they assume language provides a neutral ground for shared reasoning. By applying philosophy of language, the author demonstrates that what counts as a reason is actually determined by semantic frameworks formed through early socialisation. Consequently, deep political and moral disagreements are seen as linguistic breakdowns rather than…