Unit name | History of Science |
---|---|
Unit code | PHILM0007 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. Pyle |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | Department of Philosophy |
Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This unit would concentrate on two or three of the scientific revolutions. The case studies will be selected from among (1) the Copernican revolution, (2) Lavoisier and the discovery of oxygen, (3) the emergence of Darwinism, (4) electromagnetism and the aether, and Einstein's relativity, and (5) the birth of quantum mechanics.
The MA seminar unit for the History of Science unit consists of an in-depth study of one of three Scientific Revolutions (those associated with the names of Copernicus, Lavoisier, and Darwin), chosen by the students each year. We read our way through a considerable volume of primary source materials, with a view to gaining a fuller understanding of the dynamics of a particular revolution in science. After the sustained immersion in the primary sources, we are better able to judge the accuracy of fit between the historical facts and the philosophical stories told by Kuhn and his critics.
On successful completion of this unit, students should:
Lectures, seminars, and essay tutorials where necessary.
One essay of 5,000-6,000 words (excluding notes and bibliography)
Kuhn, T., Structure of Scientific Revolutions.