In this unit we will explore philosophical questions about the nature of empirical science, including the nature of scientific explanations, scientific laws, and how evidence counts for or against a scientific theory. If observations are our best evidence for science then how can we establish the objective nature of empirical reality on that subjective basis Should we believe that our best scientific theories are true, or approximately true, or only predictively successful What does it take for a truth to count as a law of nature This unit explores these questions by engaging with works of historical and contemporary philosophers of science.
Unit details and rules
Academic unit | Philosophy |
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Credit points | 6 |
Prerequisites
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12 credit points at 1000 level in Philosophy or History and Philosophy of Science HPSC |
Corequisites
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None |
Prohibitions
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None |
Assumed knowledge
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None |
Available to study abroad and exchange students | Yes |
Teaching staff
Coordinator | Michael Nielsen, michael.nielsen@sydney.edu.au |
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