161-216 Science, Knowledge and Dogma

This is an intensive subject held over two weeks during Summer Semester. Timetabling will be such that this subject and 161-215 The Nature of Mind can be taken concurrently. Strict enrolment deadlines apply to subjects taught during the Summer Semester. Any enrolment in, or withdrawal from, this subject for the Summer Semester must be made in line with HECS census dates, see HECS census date.

Any two university subjects or equivalent, or permission from the Head of Department or the subject coordinator.

This subject will address the nature and status of science, and rational belief within and outside science. Specific topics may include the roles of observation, value judgements and conventions in science, and whether science requires untestable metaphysical and epistemological assumptions.

Two 2000-word essays, plus regular participation in tutorials.

A subject reader will be available.