The phenomenon objection to conceptual engineering

Abstract Conceptual engineering is sometimes presented as an alternative to conceptual analysis. But one important objection analysis threatens carry across: that philosophy investigates phenomena—knowledge, truth, freedom, etc.—rather than concepts of those phenomena. This poses a prima facie problem insofar targets or terms rather Call it the ‘phenomenon objection’. I begin by examining recent discussions phenomenon Cappelen and Scharp, rejecting their responses. then clarify strengthen objection, discussing challenge ‘strong objection’ engineers. Finally, develop new response strong objection. In doing so, motivate, articulate defend account its problems on which appropriate method for tackling many philosophical problems—as well as, perhaps surprisingly, some in sciences.