Philosophy of Science

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Course Description

  • Course Name

    Philosophy of Science

  • Host University

    Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

  • Location

    Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  • Area of Study

    Philosophy

  • Language Level

    Taught In English

  • Course Level Recommendations

    Upper

    ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

    Hours & Credits

  • ECTS Credits

    6
  • Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
    3
  • Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
    4

  • Overview

    Course Objective

    1. The student has achieved a broad knowledge of central debates in contemporary philosophy of science.

    2. The student understands the key concepts and arguments employed in these debates.

    3. The student is able to present his/her own well-argued views regarding the nature of scientific knowledge and its role in today’s culture and society.

    4. The student is able to apply the general philosophical analyses to concrete cases, and can explain the relevance of these analyses to science practioners.

    Course Content

    This course will address key-subjects in philosophy of science:

    - Classical philosophy of science;

    - Historical and sociological research in science;

    - Realism and the nature of scientific explanation;

    - Science and values;

    - Feminist's perspectives on science.

    - Philosophy of science issuues in various disciplines

    -Students also learn how to assess the value of resources according to the purpose they serve

    Teaching Methods

    Lectures, assignments, debates

    Type of Assessment

    • Written exam (30%) and MPC exam (30)%: objectives 1, 2 and 4
    • Writing assignment (40%): objectives 3 and 4.
    • Quizzes: pass/fail.
    • A sufficient score for the MPC exam is a prerequisite for taking the written exam.
    • Passing the quizzes is prerequisite for taking the written exam.
    • There is a minimum requirement of 5.0 for both the written exam and the writing assignment.

    Recommended background knowledge

    Recommended is a general familiarity with systematic or historical problems from philosophy.

Course Disclaimer

Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.

Some courses may require additional fees.

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