Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - PHIL 302 B100

Topics in Epistemology and Metaphysics (3)

Philosophy of Machine Learning

Class Number: 7162

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PHIL 201 or 203.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An exploration of philosophical issues concerning, e.g.: causation, time, modality, or the self; the realism/nominalism or realism/idealism debate; relativism; the concept of truth; naturalized epistemology; global epistemological skepticism or perhaps a 'local' form of skepticism such as skepticism about induction or about sensory belief. May be repeated for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topics: Philosophy of Machine Learning

This class introduces students to central issues within the philosophy of machine learning. Topics include the nature of computing, the problem of transparency and explainability, and the ethics of automated decision-making.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This class can count as an elective for the Social Data Analytics minor’s program with special approval from the SDA advisor. Contact sda_advisor@sfu.ca for approval and more details.

 

Grading

  • Weekly assignments 30%
  • Attendance 10%
  • Term paper 60%

NOTES:

Course delivery: Blended. 

The asynchronous hour will be spent engaging in guided reading comprehension exercises which will constitute 30% of the total grade (as “weekly assignments”).

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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 philcomm@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.