PHIL 258 - Introduction to the Philosophy of Science

The sciences are widely considered to be one of our best sources of knowledge about the world. In this course, students will investigate the nature of scientific knowledge. Topics may include scientific methodology, the roles of values and social factors in scientific knowledge production, scientific revolutions, scientific explanation, and the scientific realism debate about whether our best scientific theories describe reality. Through readings and class discussions, students will learn how to apply and evaluate a range of accounts of how scientific knowledge is produced. In-class activities and assessments will develop students¿ reading comprehension, as well as their oral and written communication skills.