Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

• Spring Quarter 2013
• Summer Quarter 2013
• Autumn Quarter 2013

John B. Manchak
PHIL 460
Seattle Campus

Philosophy of Science

Critical study of the nature of scientific knowledge. Topics include the relation of theory to observation, the use of mathematics, how theories change, the requirements for the meaningfulness of a theory, and nature of confirmation.. Prerequisite: one PHIL course; recommended: PHIL 120 or PHIL 160.

Class description

This course is a survey of topics in philosophy of science. Our subject matter will include empiricism, confirmation, explanation, underdetermination, realism, naturalism, and the structure of science and its revolutions. Prerequisite: one PHIL course. Recommended: PHIL 120, PHIL 160, PHIL 360. TEXTS: "Philosophy of Science: The Central Issues", M. Curd, J. Cover and C. Pincock, eds.; "Theory and Reality: An Introduction To The Philosophy of Science", P. Godfrey-Smith.

Student learning goals

General method of instruction

Recommended preparation

Class assignments and grading

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Modified:May 17, 2013