Full Idea
If we had to make explicit appeal to epistemic norms for justification (the 'intellectualist model') we would find ourselves in an infinite regress. The norms, their existence and their application would themselves have to be justified.
Gist of Idea
If we have to appeal explicitly to epistemic norms, that will produce an infinite regress
Source
John L. Pollock (Epistemic Norms [1986], 'How regulate?')
Book Reference
'Epistemology - An Anthology', ed/tr. Sosa,E. /Kim,J. [Blackwell 2000], p.194
A Reaction
This is counter to the 'space of reasons' picture, where everything is rationally assessed. There are regresses for both reasons and for experiences, when they are offered as justifications.