PHIL 160 Introduction to the Philosophy of Science (5 credits)

2. Identify and critique different theories of scientific explanation.

3. Demonstrate how confirmation of scientific theories work.

4. Identify and critique various problems related to induction.

5. Explain the differing aims of confirmation and falsification, and demonstrate how these frameworks would be utilized in actual scientific experiments.

6. Identify the differences between Realism and Anti-realism, and construct arguments in favor of each.

7. Demonstrate what “normal science,” scientific revolutions, and paradigm shifts are, and identify their presence throughout the history of science. Examine how scientific theories have changed over time.

8. Identify and critique problems with scientific methodology, including those critiques of science that come from feminist perspectives.

Degree Outcomes
Humanities: Graduates acquire critical skills to interpret, analyze, and evaluate forms of human expression, which can include creation and performance as an expression of human experience.

Critical, Creative and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.

Lecture Contact Hours 50
Lab Contact Hours 0
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 50

Potential Methods
A. Group Debate
B. Essay
C. Exams
D. Self Assessments
E. Short Essay/Short Answer
F. Papers
G. Projects
H. Journals
I. Discussions/Discussion Prompts