136-566 Scepticism, Fallibilism and Relativism

Formerly available as 136-449 and 136-068 and 136-466. Students who have completed 136-449 or 136-068 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours, or a postgraduate coursework program.

This subject involves an examination of foundational issues in the epistemology of science. Students who complete this subject should have a critical understanding of some advanced topics in the theory of scientific knowledge and be familiar with the current literature on epistemological relativism or related issues in the philosophy of science.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• conduct independent research;

• make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

Written work totalling 5000 words consisting of several weekly mini-papers totalling 1500 words, a one hour class presentation of 1000 words and a 2500 word research paper (due at the end of semester)