Description:

Surveys various approaches to scientific thought, using examples from the history of science and philosophy. Students look critically at concepts of scientific method, scientific laws, casualty, determinism, indeterminism, pseudo-science, and prediction/confirmation/induction.

Outcomes:

After completing this class, students should be able to:

• demonstrate knowledge of key terms and concepts by using them accurately in tests and assigned papers.
• demonstrates comprehension knowledge of various views on the nature of science as argued by the relevant philosophers in tests and assigned papers.
• demonstrate comprehension of the nature and function of philosophy of science in essay tests.
• demonstrate knowledge of philosophical problems in the various sciences in essay tests.
• demonstrate ability to argue successfully against various pseudo – scientific “explanations” and theories through writing papers, and essay tests.