Unit information: Philosophy of Science in 2014/15

Unit name	Philosophy of Science
Unit code	PHIL30049
Credit points	20
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Grose
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	PHIL20046 Realism and Normativity
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of Philosophy
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

A central debate in philosophy of science is that concerning scientific realism: ought we to believe that the unobservable entities (electrons, black holes and so on) postulated by out best scientific theories exist? This unit will focus on topics of current interest in the epistemology and metaphysics of science with particular reference to the debate about scientific realism, hence we will discuss the nature of explanation, confirmation, laws of nature, causation, and theory-change. The unit will consist of a lecture each week together with a seminar where we will discuss some of the classic literature in the philosophy of science as well as some of the most recent contributions to the subject.

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the unit, students will be expected to be able to:

• Identify and discuss key debates within the philosophy of natural science. Topics include Scientific Confirmation, Explanation, Underdetermination, Scientific Revolutions, Probability and Bayesian approaches, Laws, Realism.
• Critically assess arguments made in the relevant philosophical literature.
• Explain, in a written argument, the strengths and weaknesses of positions taken within these debates.
• Communicate these arguments with clear, fluent writing.
• Develop and demonstrate research skills.

Teaching Information

1 hour lecture and 1 hour seminar per week.

Assessment Information

One 3 hour exam and one formative essay

Reading and References

Key Reading:

Alexander Bird and James Ladyman (eds) Arguing About Science