University of Stirling

Philosophy

Current Students: Undergraduates

 

Core Modules and Options at Level 10

PHI9LC - Philosophy of Science

The philosophy of science incorporates both the philosophical study of scientific inquiry in general and the investigation of philosophical issues raised by particular sciences and scientific theories.  In this module we shall look at general issues in scientific inquiry in relation to one particular scientific theory: quantum mechanics.  Quantum mechanics is one of the most successful theories in the history of science.  It is also one of the most perplexing in its implications for our everyday conception of the world and how it works, for metaphysics, and even, some have suggested, for logic.

Note: no prior knowledge of physics is assumed.

Outcomes

  • To introduce ideas from the philosophy of science in their historical context.
  • To introduce philosophical issues raised by quantum mechanics such as: probability, chance and indeterminism; the nature of measurement; the role of consciousness in measurement; Einstein's ideas on realism, locality and separability in physical theory; many worlds and many mind interpretations; quantum logic.
  • The module further aims to improve critical reading, critical thinking, and oral communication skills through the seminar discussion and essay writing processes.  (See section B of the Philosophy Student Handbook for more details.)

Reading

Preliminary reading: the following are easy to read and give you a good idea what quantum mechanics is about and what led scientists to it (although neither is 100% reliable)

  • Introducing Quantum Theory, by J. P. McEvoy and Oscar Zarate (Icon Books 1996)
  • Quantum Theory: A Very Short Introduction, by J. Polkinghorne (OUP 2002)

For the module:

  • David Z. Albert, Quantum Mechanics and Experience, (Harvard University Press, 1992)
 
Availability:
Honours, 3yr, General Degree
Prerequisite:
Any level 9 Philosophy module
Assessment:

Coursework (one required essay) 50%; final examination (3 questions in 3 hours) 50%. Students may choose to submit a second essay to improve their coursework grade.
Teaching Pattern:
Two one-hour lectures and one one-hour seminar each week
Regulations:
An important outcome of the module is ability to think critically about the topics covered. Critical discussion of topics in lectures and seminars forms an essential part of the module. For this reason, lecture and seminar classes are prescribed.  For regulations and policies governing Philosophy see the Philosophy Student Handbook, section F.

 

Please contact Peter Milne if you would like to know more about this module.