Description
This is an introductory module in the philosophy of science. The module is divided into two parts: (1) the epistemology of science and (2) the metaphysics of science. The first part of the module will focus on several central problems regarding the nature of scientific knowledge: how do scientists know if current scientific theories are true? Is science progressive? How do scientists test their theories and how are theories confirmed? Can science and pseudoscience be distinguished? Students also will examine some of the major positions about scientific knowledge in twentieth-century philosophy Inductivism (Bacon), Logical Empiricism (Ayer and Quine), Falsificationism (Popper), Incommensurability (Kuhn) and Relativism (Feyerabend). This module is designed as a foundation for other philosophy of science modules in the future. No prerequisites.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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