Spring 2019 - PHIL 341 D100

Philosophy of Science (3)

Class Number: 3250

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 8, 2019: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 3 – Apr 8, 2019: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Either one of: PHIL 201 or 203; or both of PHIL 100W (or equivalent) and COGS 200.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A study of the nature of scientific enquiry, classificatory systems, laws and theories, the role of observation in science, the demarcation between science and non-science, causality, the status of theoretical constructs, and teleological explanation.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will focus on several issues central to contemporary philosophy of science. We will focus on general issues such as explanation an causation, and delve into key issues in each of several major subfields, such as philosophy of physics and philosophy of biology. Our goal will be an in-depth understanding of several such core areas of current discussions. Each major topic will culminate in a paper. The first topic will focus on explanations in science: what form do explanations take, and are there genuine differences among kinds of explanations given by different sciences, or among types of explanations such as causal versus mathematical? How central is explanation-seeking and –provision to the activities in science: are good explanations a byproduct of other activities such as experimentation or empirical accuracy of predictions, or is the development of explanation central to what scientists do? Subsequent topics will be selected by the class members, but will include at least one topic within contemporary philosophy of physics and philosophy of biology. These might include the issue of interpretations of quantum mechanics, the relationship between statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, the extent and character of mechanisms in biology, the character of models and modeling practices in the sciences, use of computer algorithms on big data projects, and more.

Grading

  • Papers 60%
  • Weekly responses to readings 20%
  • Weekly online discussion posts 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be made available in PDF form through Canvas, or are available through the Library’s journal subscriptions.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philmgr@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS