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Topics in the Philosophy of Science - HPSC3200
Students studying

 
Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of History and Philosophy
 
 
Course Outline: See below
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Undergraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 6
 
 
EFTSL: 0.12500 (more info)
 
 
Indicative Contact Hours per Week: 3
 
 
Enrolment Requirements:
 
 
Prerequisite: 36 units of credit
 
 
Fee Band: 1 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

Explores central issues in the philosophy of science at advanced level. Topics will be drawn from: scientific change; demarcation; rationality and objectivity; theory and observation; discovery; instrumentalism and realism; cognitive approaches to science; laws of nature; explanation, reduction and causality; underdetermination; justification and evaluation. Emphasis is placed on developing disciplinary skills required for higher level research in the field.


Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course students should be able to:
  • think critically and communicate effectively about key issues in philosophy of science
  • explore central issues in the philosophy of science at an advanced level
  • practice the discipline of philosophy of science in an interdisciplinary context
  • apply the philosophical skills acquired to other questions concerning knowledge
  • engage in independent and reflective learning in the philosophy of science
  • appraise arguments in the philosophy of science and contribute to discussion and debate in the field
  • direct, plan and manage advanced research in the philosophy of science.

Assessment

  • Critical bibliography & research essay proposal - 10%
  • Research essay (2,500 words) - 40%
  • Tutorial presentation and paper - 30%
  • Seminar paper - 10%
  • Participation - 10%

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© The University of New South Wales (CRICOS Provider No.: 00098G), 2004-2011. The information contained in this Handbook is indicative only. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary arrangements, programs and courses at any time without notice and at its discretion. While the University will try to avoid or minimise any inconvenience, changes may also be made to programs, courses and staff after enrolment. The University may also set limits on the number of students in a course.