This module will provide a critical overview of philosophical questions about the methods and metaphysical underpinnings of contemporary science. Core topics will include current debates about the ‘proper’ nature of scientific explanation, and the epistemological status of models and computer simulations in scientific research (including ‘model’ organisms). No prior knowledge of science is required, but readings will sometimes engage with scientific work and one of the assessments is based on a lab visit (set up by the module leader).

• Describe and critically assess recent work in philosophy of science

• Link recent work in philosophy of science to observations of science in practice

• Construct arguments, both verbally and in written work, drawing on relevant philosophical and empirical work

The course will be taught through weekly lectures and seminars, and field trips to science labs around Cardiff University.

It is worth bearing in mind that, even though the point of the module is to do philosophy, many of the skills you’ll be developing are also highly valued by graduate employers. These include:

• Critical Thinking: e.g. the ability to understand, structure and critically evaluate the key points and arguments made in written texts and discussions––achieved through e.g. reading, small group activities in lectures and seminars, plenary discussions in seminars, reflecting on lecture materials, essay and exam preparation and writing.
• Communication: the ability to formulate and articulate your critical thinking, both orally and on paper, in ways that others can grasp and engage with––achieved through e.g. small group work in seminars, seminar discussions, essay/exam writing.
• Organisation: the ability to organise and coordinate workloads––achieved through balancing e.g. reading, seminar preparation, essay/exam preparation.
• Working with others: e.g. co-constructing ideas, responding sensitively to others––achieved through e.g. small group work in seminars, group presentations.

The formative assessment for this module will consist of one essay of 1,500 words maximum, and (minimally) one group feedback meeting.

The summative assessment for this module will consist of one essay of 2,000 words maximum, one report based on a field trip/lab visit relating to a philosophical topic in the course of 1000 words maximum, and one group oral presentation. (Alternative assessments will be made available to those who cannot join a field trip).

Both written and verbal components of this module are assessed according to the Marking Criteria set out in the Philosophy Course Guide (to be provided also on Learning Central). Written advice on how to give good oral presentations will be provided. Plagiarism policies apply equally to verbal and written work. There are otherwise no academic or competence standards which limit the availability of adjustments or alternative assessments for students with disabilities.

A critical review of topics in philosophy of science including current debates about the ‘proper’ nature of scientific explanation, and the epistemological status of models and computer simulations in scientific research (including ‘model’ organisms).

A course reader will be provided for the module.

This will be available on Learning Central.