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 136-064 Beyond Realism and Relativism

Note

Formerly available as 136-416. Students who have completed 136-416 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Availability

4th year

Credit Points

12.5

Coordinator

Dr Howard Sankey

Prerequisites

Admission to Honours see Honours entry

Semester

Not Offered (view timetable)

Contact

A 2-hour seminar/lecture per week

Subject Description

The subject will introduce students to key themes in contemporary debate in philosophy of science emerging from the opposition between scientific realism and epistemological relativism. Particular attention will be devoted to the recent emergence of neo-Pragmatist positions in the philosophy of science, with special reference made to the writings of such philosophers as Ian Hacking, Larry Laudan, Bill Lycan, Hilary Putnam, Nicholas Rescher, Richard Rorty and Stephen Stich. Some examination of classic pragmatist authors (C.S. Peirce, John Dewey, William James) will also be undertaken.

Assessment

Written work totalling 5000 words.



Search : Index : Faculty of Arts : History and Philosophy of Science
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Next 136-065 Science in the Classical World
Status:                   Official 1999
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Email Enquiries:          Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au