Studying at York
Philosophy of Science - PHI00080I
Module summary
The module is an advanced introduction to several key topics and issues in contemporary philosophy of science. In this module, we examine a range of important and connected topics, i.e., the scientific method and the rationality of induction, the nature and status of evidence (from an epistemic point of view), scientific realism and its rivals (e.g., instrumentalism), the scientific imagination (in relation to scientific models and thought experiments) as well as views about scientific representation, explanation, causation, the laws of nature, theory choice (by examining some of the literature on theoretical virtues).
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Spring Term 2022-23 to Summer Term 2022-23 |
Module aims
Subject Content
To introduce several key themes in contemporary philosophy of science.
Academic and Graduate Skills
The module develops students’ abilities to apply philosophical methods to debates in other disciplines, to understand better the nature and limits of scientific knowledge, and to grasp the kind of foundational questions that arise in the natural sciences.
Module learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
—understand and explain a range of key problems, issues, and debates in the philosophy of science and express this understanding in clear, precise, and accessible terms
—develop and articulate ranges of alternative solutions to problems and issues in the philosophy of science in an open-minded way, drawing on module materials
—develop and articulate arguments for the alternative solutions considered in relation to problems and issues in the philosophy of science, drawing on module materials, identifying some points of weakness and some potential points for development
—make a judgement about what is the best view on a particular problem in the philosophy of science and argue in defence of this judgement
—identify some of their strengths and weaknesses by evaluating their own work in relation to departmental marking criteria
—apply simple strategies for improving their work, based on critical reflection, advice, and feedback
Module content
The module is an advanced introduction to several key topics and issues in contemporary philosophy of science. In this module, we examine a range of important and connected topics, i.e., the scientific method and the rationality of induction, the nature and status of evidence (from an epistemic point of view), scientific realism and its rivals (e.g., instrumentalism), as well as views about explanation, causation, the laws of nature, determinism and indeterminism, and theory choice (by examining the literature on theoretical virtues).
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 70 |
| Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 30 |
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
The formative assessment will comprise a 750-word critical summary of a journal article of book chapter which will be due in Week 7 of the Spring Term.
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 70 |
| Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 30 |
Module feedback
Feedback on formative work will be returned within 2 weeks of submission, and by the end of term at the latest. Feedback on summative work will be returned within 4 weeks of the assessment deadline.
Indicative reading
Bortolotti, L. (2008). An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science. London: Polity
Godfrey-Smith, P. (2003) Theory and Reality. Chicago: U. Chicago Press.
Ladyman, J. (2002) Understanding Philosophy of Science. London: Routledge