Abstract

The paper uses a systematic approach, with some references to the history of ideas, in order to contrast two logics of how knowledge can be used in society. The »market logic of knowledge« describes, on the one hand, the ability of markets to process decentralized knowledge, which has been emphasized in particular by F. A. von Hayek, and on the other hand the instrumental logic of the self-interested use of knowledge, which also uses expert-knowledge strategically. The »professional logic of knowledge« describes a logic of responsibility, in which the jointly-secured knowledge of a profession is made available for society. Both the strengths and the weaknesses of these two models are discussed. Against the background of a political climate in which the professional model has been increasingly questioned – with strange alliances between proponents of the free market and populists - the paper argues for a revival of a reflective form of professionalism. This form of professionalism is aware of its own position in democratic societies and stands in a fruitful exchange with laypeople. What is ultimately at stake is how liberal societies will deal with complex, divided knowledge - and hence how to maintain trust in the liberal model as such.