Course Title : Introduction to Philosophy of Science
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Module Code
PH2201
Semester
Modular Credits
4
Pre-Requisites
Nil
Preclusion
Nil
Lecture Location / Day / Time
Description
This module will introduce students to a variety of issues in the philosophy of science, including philosophical questions arising from the general study of science, technology, and society. Along with historically significant accounts of the scientific method offered by philosophers such as Popper, Lakatos, Hempel, Kuhn, Feyerabend and others, we will examine a range of questions arising from contemporary philosophy of science. Particular emphasis will be placed on the character of scientific evidence and scientific explanations, the structure of scientific theories, issues of confirmation and theory choice, scientific realism, the role of models and simulations in science, the social character of scientific practice, as well as the relevance of philosophy of science to global contemporary debates and challenges.
Assessment
Written exam (50%), Class tests and written assignment (30%), Class attendance (10%), Tutorial participation (10%)
References
Peter Godfrey-Smith: Theory and Reality. An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science, Chicago UP 2003. Anthology: Martin Curd, Jan A. Cover: Philosophy of Science: The Central Issues. W.W. Norton 1998. Other readings TBA.
