UE00FB49 Philosophy of the Exact Sciences (2 cr)
Cooperation network course
Network: National doctoral courses
Available for: Doctoral studies
This course is offered through the Network for Doctoral Studies. These studies are available for doctoral degree students studying in the University of Jyväskylä.
Description
The module will look at some central philosophical issues in the exact sciences, or the sciences using mathematical/quantitative methods (broadly construed). The topics covered by the course include such as: What are quantities? What is quantitative explanation? Is there causation in physics, “at the fundamental level”? How does mathematics explain? What are probabilities, randomness and noise? What is a “system”?
The first meeting will contain a lecture on the topics of the seminar and instructions on how to complete the course. The following five meetings will acquaint you with five central philosophical issues/debates of the theme of the seminar. The topic of the seventh meeting will be agreed on during the course together with the participants.
Learning outcomes
After completing the course, you
- are acquainted with the current philosophical, theoretical, and conceptual issues and debates of your field of science
- have acquired conceptual and argumentative tools for discussing and writing about the foundational issues of your field
- are acquainted with sources for finding information about the philosophical issues relevant to your research
- understand complex arguments
- understand the broader context of research
- create visionary ideas and/or ways of working
Additional information
Offering Data:
For researchers
Accreditations, exemption examinations or alternative courses are not available for the course.
Description of prerequisites
The course is useful during the mid-stages of doctoral training.