Meaning: Lorraine Code's quote, "Objectivity requires taking subjectivity into account," encapsulates a fundamental aspect of the complex relationship between objectivity and subjectivity in epistemology and knowledge production. In this quote, Code highlights the interdependence of objectivity and subjectivity, challenging the traditional dichotomy that often pits them against each other. To fully understand the depth of this statement, it is essential to explore the concepts of objectivity and subjectivity, their historical context, and their implications for knowledge construction and interpretation.

Objectivity is generally associated with the idea of neutrality, impartiality, and freedom from bias. It is often perceived as a gold standard in scientific research, journalism, and decision-making processes. Objectivity seeks to uncover truths that are independent of individual perspectives or emotions, aiming to present information in a way that is universally valid and reliable. However, the pursuit of pure objectivity is inherently challenging, as every act of observation and interpretation is influenced by the observer's subjectivity.

Subjectivity, on the other hand, encompasses the personal experiences, feelings, and interpretations that shape an individual's understanding of the world. It is often regarded as the antithesis of objectivity, associated with bias, emotion, and partiality. Subjectivity acknowledges the diversity of human experiences and perspectives, recognizing that individuals bring their unique backgrounds and beliefs to the process of sense-making and knowledge creation.

Code's assertion that objectivity requires taking subjectivity into account challenges the notion that objectivity can exist in isolation from subjectivity. Rather than viewing subjectivity as an obstacle to be overcome in the pursuit of objectivity, she argues that acknowledging and integrating subjectivity is essential for achieving a more robust form of objectivity. This perspective aligns with a growing recognition in various fields that objectivity is not a state of complete detachment from subjectivity, but rather a process that involves critical reflexivity and awareness of one's situatedness.

In feminist epistemology, Code's work has been particularly influential in critiquing traditional notions of objectivity and advocating for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of knowledge production. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the social and political dimensions of knowledge, highlighting how power dynamics, privilege, and marginalization shape what is considered objective or subjective in different contexts.

By foregrounding the relationship between objectivity and subjectivity, Code's quote invites us to reconsider how we approach knowledge construction and evaluation. It prompts us to interrogate the ways in which objectivity can be enriched and made more rigorous by engaging with diverse subjectivities, rather than dismissing them as impediments to truth. This approach has significant implications for fields such as science, where inclusivity and diversity in research practices can lead to more comprehensive and valid knowledge outcomes.

In conclusion, Lorraine Code's quote, "Objectivity requires taking subjectivity into account," challenges us to rethink the traditional dichotomy between objectivity and subjectivity. It underscores the intertwined nature of these concepts and encourages us to embrace subjectivity as a vital component of achieving more robust forms of objectivity. By considering the complex interplay between objectivity and subjectivity, we can cultivate a more inclusive and reflexive approach to knowledge production, one that is attuned to the diverse perspectives and experiences that shape our understanding of the world.