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2004/05 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
HPSC3800 Realism and the Metaphysics of Science.
10 creditsClass Size: 999
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2004/05
Pre-requisites
Either, one of: HPSC2320 Progress and Revolutions; HPSC2330 Theories and Phenomena; Or one of: PHIL2020 Introduction to Metaphysics; PHIL2070 Introduction to Epistemology; PHIL2610 Theories of Meaning; PHIL2620 Meaning and Truth; PHIL2640 Space, Time and Infinity; together with HPSC1200 How Science WorksObjectives
On completion of this module students should be able to analyse andcritically assess a variety of epistemological and metaphysical issues in
the philosophy of science.
Syllabus
The aim of this module is to apply the skills and perspectives acquired in previous modules to a variety of issues in the philosophy of science. Topics include: i) The 'No Miracles' Argument and Inference to the Best Explanation; ii) The Pessimistic Meta-Induction and Underdetermination of Theories by Evidence; iii) Standard Realism, Structural Realism and Patchwork Realism iv) The Natural Ontological Attitude and Constructive Empiricism v) Laws and Necessity; vi) Causality, Determinism and Regularity; vii) The Foundations of Probability; viii) Entropy and the Arrow of Time.
Teaching methods
Seminars: 11 x 2 hours
Methods of assessment
One 2000 essay.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 10/06/2004
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