Philosophy of Science

Description

This subject is designed to equip students with an appreciation of the nature of scientific knowledge and practice. It revolves around four questions. What is science? Here we will investigate in what way is science is thought to be distinct from other ways of knowing. We will also consider how science changes, and what is meant by scientific progress. What is science for? Contenders include: Explaining the world, uncovering causal relationships, predicting outcomes, understanding phenomena, and making interventions. How does science work? Here we examine different modes of scientific investigation, looking at the strength and limitations of various research designs. We will also consider how bias can occur within the scientific method, and whether some research methods are hierarchically superior to others. What is the relationship between values and science? Here we consider how values influence science, whether it is possible for science to be value-free, and whether it is desirable for science to be value-laden or not. Teaching Period: 2 March 2026 to 31 May 2026 Assessment Information: Description Timing Percentage Weekly Quizzes 1200 words (equivalent) From Week 2 to Week 11 30% Essay plan and annotated bibliography 1200 words (equivalent) Week 10 20% Essay 2000 words During the examination period 50% Hurdle requirement: 1. Attendance hurdle requirement: This subject has a minimum requirement of 80% attendance at tutorials, seminars, or workshops. There is an expectation that students attend lectures. Throughout the teaching period N/A Hurdle requirement: 2. Assessment hurdle requirement: All pieces of assessment must be submitted to pass the subject. Each submitted assessment must be complete, constitute a genuine attempt to address the requirements of the task. Throughout the semester N/A Additional details Late penalty requirement : Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at five per cent (5%) of the possible marks available for the assessment task per day or part thereof and will not be accepted after 20 University business days from the original assessment due date without written approval.