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 136-036 Philosophy of Science

Note

Formerly available as 136-220/320. Students who have completed 136-220/320 Philosophy of Science are not eligible to enrol in this subject. Available at levels 2 and 3, except in Science (level 2 only). For Science level 3, see 136-336.

Credit Points

12.5

HECS Band

1

Coordinator

To be advised

Prerequisites

Normally 75 points of level 1 study.

Semester

1 (view timetable)

Contact

Between 10 and 12 weekly tutorials and between 20 and 24 lectures, normally two per week

Subject Description

This subject explores the history and logic of a major scientific theory. It will critically examine both scientists' actual behaviour and philosophical accounts of how science should be done. Students should acquire an understanding of such philosophical/scientific issues as: What is the nature of space and time? Can biology be 'reduced' to physics? Do good scientists sometimes ignore scientific evidence? Students should also acquire an understanding of how method and theories in the sciences have changed over the centuries and gain a background in the philosophy and history of science on which to base further study in the area.

Assessment

Written work totalling 4000 words.



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