Master Topic in Philosophy of Science
Postgraduate course
- ECTS credits
- 10
- Teaching semesters
- Autumn
- Course code
- FIL319
- Number of semesters
- 1
- Resources
- Schedule
- Reading list
Course description
Objectives and Content
Philosophy of science is concerned with fundamental questions in and about science, its inner workings, its objectives, its methods, its strengths and limitations, its pitfalls, and its differences from other human activities. Some of the key questions addressed in this course are:
- What qualifies as science, and what does not?
- What makes a method scientific?
- What is the difference between a good and a bad scientific inference?
- Is there a general purpose of science, and if so, what is it?
- Are the best current scientific theories true or only useful instruments?
- What is a scientific explanation?
- What is a law of nature?
- What is causation?
- How does science change and progress?
While there is little consensus on the answers to many of these questions, this course aims to provide a general overview of the debates surrounding these topics and to critically evaluate the various positions. We also explore the numerous connections between the philosophy of science and adjacent branches of philosophy, such as metaphysics and epistemology. The course primarily focuses on contemporary philosophy.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge:
After completing the course, the student should have good knowledge of the core concepts, problems, arguments, and positions in contemporary philosophy of science.
Skills:
After completing the course, the student should be able to:
- provide well-reasoned answers to all of the key questions in philosophy of science;
- discuss the central issues, concepts, and arguments in philosophy of science, both verbally and in written form;
- critically evaluate the relevant arguments in philosophy of science;
- independently work on philosophical questions and problems.
Level of Study
Semester of Instruction
Required Previous Knowledge
Recommended Previous Knowledge
Access to the Course
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching is offered in the form of lectures and/or seminars.
The number of gatherings may be reduced if the number of students attending the course is less than 4. In that case, the students will be compensated with individual or group tutoring
The students will be offered the opportunity to present some materials in class, either some assigned readings, or their own work towards the end of the semester. Although this activity is not obligatory, and will not be graded, it will help them improve their abilities to communicate orally and present ideas to an audience.
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
Forms of Assessment
A semester assignment of 4000-6000 words, excluding bibliography, is required. The topic must be approved by the instructor. The assignment can be written in Norwegian or English. It will be assessed at the end of the semester.
Exams in the course are held every semester.
The compulsory activities have to be formally approved by the instructor before the semester assignment can be submitted.