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Academic Year 2005/2006

Philosophy of Science
SISP 202 SP
Crosslistings:
PHIL 287

This course is a basic introduction to the philosophy of science. Topics include the relation between finished theories or explanations and ongoing research, the recognition and dissemination of discoveries, the justification of scientific claims, conceptual and technical (revolutionary) change in the science, the significance of instrumentation, experiment and artifice in science, and possible differences between the natural sciences and the study of human beings. Considerable attention will be given to examples of scientific practice, both historical and contemporary.

MAJOR READINGS

Carl Hempel, PHILOSOPHY OF NATURAL SCIENCE
Thomas Kuhn, THE STRUCTURE OF SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTIONS
Ian Hacking, REPRESENTING AND INTERVENING
David Papineau, ed. THE PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE
plus reserve reading.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

One take-home examination, two medium length papers, short ungraded papers weekly; informed participation in class discussion.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

This is a required course for students in the Science in Society Program, but is not limited to SISP students.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: HA SISP    Grading Mode: Student Option   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-30-2006

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