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SISP367

Meaning, Metaphor, and Science
SISP367 FA

Crosslistings: PHIL367, CHUM367

Not Currently Offered

An advanced seminar in philosophy of science and cultural theory, the course will draw upon recent work in the philosophy of language and of science to establish connections and explore similarities and differences between philosophical studies of the meaningfulness of scientific concepts, theories, and laws, and theoretical and methodological studies of cultural interpretation. These discussions will provide the background for a critical reading of some recent cultural and historical studies of scientific practices.

MAJOR READINGS

Readings will consist mostly of short
articles; authors read for theoretical background will be:
N. Goodman, W.V. Quine, C. Taylor, C. Geertz, D. Davidson,
P. Rabinow, S. Wheeler, J. Bond, I. Hacking, J. Rouse. The
cultural studies discussed at the end of the course will be
taken from work by Donna Haraway, E.F. Keller, H.J.
Rheinberger, Paul Rabinow, and/or Paula Treichler.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Seminar presentations, and two or perhaps three papers.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

There are no specific prerequisites for the course, but students should not enroll in the course without prior study of at least one of the following: philosophy of science, social studies of science, philosophy of language or mind, anthropological theory, literary theory. Students whose background is primarily in theoretical traditions outside of philosophy should be prepared to approach familiar issues using unfamiliar vocabularies and perspectives. Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the first class, they will be dropped from the class list. NOTE: Students must still submit a completed Drop/Add form to the Registrar's Office.

COURSE FORMAT: Discussion Seminar

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UG Credit: 1.00 Gen Ed Area & Dept: SBS PHIL

Prerequisites: None

Last Updated on MAR-22-1999




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