Science, Philosophy and History

Subject 136-105 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbookSearch for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Semester 2, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

*

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: Two 1-hour lectures and a 1-hour tutorial per week
Total Time Commitment: *
Prerequisites: *
Corequisites: *
Recommended Background Knowledge: *
Non Allowed Subjects: *
Core Participation Requirements: *

Coordinator

Assoc Prof Helen Verran
Subject Overview:

Many philosophical issues and problems arose in the course of twentieth century science. Ranging across the physical, biological, and social sciences we consider the work of a variety of twentieth century scientists and study some of the controversies that surrounded their work. Students completing this subject should better understand that science is a remarkably complex and often beautiful result of an intricate set of forces: conceptual and experimental but also economic, social and individual.

Assessment: Written work totalling 4000 words comprising weekly tutorial assignments of 2000 words 50% (due throughout the semester). A minimum of six tutorial papers are required to be submitted; and a 2000-word final paper 50% (due during the exam period).
Prescribed Texts: Prescribed Texts:A subject reader will be available for purchase from the University Book Shop.What is This Thing Called Science? (Chalmers), (3rd ed)
Breadth Options:

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

  • Bachelor of Biomedicine
  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Bachelor of Environments
  • Bachelor of Music
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • develop skills in written and oral communication;

  • conduct independent research;

  • make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

  • form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.
Notes:

Formerly available as 136-031. Students who have completed 136-031 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Students enrolled in the BSc (pre-2008 degree only), or a combined BSc course (except for the BA/BSc) will receive science credit for the completion of this subject.

Related Course(s): Bachelor of Arts
Diploma in Arts (History and Philosophy of Science
Diploma in Arts (Philosophy)
Diploma in Arts (Philosophy)
Graduate Certificate in Arts (History & Philosophy of Science)
Graduate Diploma in Arts (History and Philosophy of Science)
Graduate Diploma in Arts (Logic and Philosophy of Science)

Download PDF version.