161-216 Science, Knowledge and Dogma

This is an intensive two-week subject offered at the beginning of January. 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.

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.

• be able to understand both the heart of a philosophical issue and its broader implications;

• have learnt to form a critical understanding of philosophical texts;

• have developed their skills to construct rigorous philosophical arguments.

Two 2000-word essays 50% each (due in March and April). Provision for earlier assessment can be made in approved cases by special arrangement with the lecturer.

A subject reader will be available.