Fall 2023

Of Theories and Theorems: Philosophical Questions about Science and Mathematics

Listed in: Philosophy, as PHIL-309

Faculty

Alexander George (Section 01)

Description

 We will explore such questions as: What is "the scientific method"?  How can we know anything beyond what we have experienced?  What is a theoretical entity, like an electron?  What is an explanation in science?  What is mathematics about?  How is mathematical knowledge acquired?  What are mathematical objects, like natural numbers?  What is a proof?  How do we know which principles of reasoning are correct?  What is an infinite collection?  Why is mathematics so useful to science?

Requisite: one course in philosophy required. Limited to 20 students. Fall semester. Professor Alexander George.

How to handle overenrollment: Preference to majors, then by class and to those who attend first class.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: emphasis on written work, readings, class participation

PHIL 309 - LEC

Section 01
W 01:00 PM - 02:20 PM COOP 201
F 01:00 PM - 02:20 PM COOP 201

Offerings

Other years: Offered in Fall 2023