Science shapes our understanding of the world, underlies the technologies we use daily, and informs personal and political decisions affecting many lives. But what exactly makes scientific knowledge reliable? How do scientific theories develop, and should we trust them as true representations of reality? This course introduces key questions in the philosophy of science. We will explore the nature of scientific knowledge, examine debates over scientific realism (whether science uncovers truth or just useful models), learn about different approaches to confirming hypotheses, different kinds of evidence for causal claims and examine the grounds for the (external) validity of empirical research. In addition, we will also have a look at the influence of values and social factors in scientific practice and discuss problems within the ethics of science concerning research integrity, scientific misconduct, and the danger of biases. Designed for students from diverse disciplines, this course will encourage critical reflection on how scientific knowledge is produced, interpreted, and applied in various fields—from physics to medicine to the social sciences. No prior background in philosophy is required, just a willingness to question assumptions about science and knowledge.
- Teacher: Robert Frühstückl