ABSTRACT
In attacking the pretensions of epistemological foundationalism, Rorty also attacks a conception of philosophy as the assessor or adjudicator of human practices. Rorty holds that a person deludes himself if he thinks he knows himself, or anything else, except under optional descriptions. Yet, philosophers who begin by noting a plurality of perspectives often go on to suggest, misleadingly, that the recognition of such a plurality must be reflected in a certain attitude on the part of the adherents to the particular perspectives. Rorty also believes that once foundationalism has been overthrown, criticism of the culture can only proceed piecemeal. There can be no reference to 'eternal standards'. Rorty sees himself as having to make a choice between two options: on the one hand, systematic philosophy, and on the other hand, edifying philosophy. The non-systematic philosopher is interested in clarity and is therefore anxious to recognise the diversity of perspectives within our culture.
