136-033 Science, Reason and Reality

Formerly available as 136-202/302. Students who have completed 136-202 or 136-302 Science, Reason and Reality are not eligible to enrol in this subject. For science third year, see 136-333 Science, Reason and Reality (Science 3).

Usually 75 points of first year study across any discipline areas.

This subject addresses some of the central issues in the philosophy of science. It will raise questions such as: What is the difference between science and non-science? Is there a universal scientific method? Or do the methods employed by scientists vary historically? Is scientific theory change a rational process? Is science objective? Do scientific theories inform us of the truth about the world? Students who take this class will have knowledge of the major themes of recent and contemporary philosophical thinking about science. They will also have experience of the methods of critical analysis and argument employed in the philosophy of science and a background on which to base further study in the area.

• have experience of thinking systematically about difficult intellectual problems of an abstract nature;

• have practice conducting research, speaking articulately, writing clearly and reading with attention to detail.

Written work totalling 4000 words comprising a 1500 word essay 30% (due mid-semester) and a 2500 word essay 70% (due at the end of semester).

• A Chalmers, What is This Thing Called Science?.
• M Curd & J A Cover, Philosophy of Science: The Central Issues.
• I Hacking, Representing and Intervening.