Topics in Epistemology and Philosophy of Science
About the course
Mandatory course in the master’s program in philosophy. Can also be taken as a single course.
This course offers a research-based exploration of selected topics in epistemology and philosophy of science, drawing on a mix of contemporary and historical sources. The specific topics may vary from year to year, depending on the area of expertise of the lecturer and the students’ interests. Some topics and questions covered in the course might be:
- The Nature and Scope of Knowledge: What are the necessary and sufficient conditions for something to count as knowledge?
- Truth and Justification: How do we justify our beliefs, and what role does truth play in justification?
- Objectivity and bias in Science: Is scientific objectivity an achievable ideal, or is it inherently influenced by social and cultural factors?
- The Structure and Dynamics of Scientific Knowledge: What are the limits of scientific methods, and how does scientific theories represent the world?
- The Boundaries of Science: What distinguishes science from non-science, and why is this distinction important?
- Role of science in society: Most (scientific) knowledge is, to various degrees, uncertain, while actors in the society expect certainty. How does the societal expectation of science influence policymaking and societal discourses, when (scientific) knowledge is uncertain?
Students will critically examine key texts and arguments, develop their own analyses, and explore contemporary debates within epistemology and/or philosophy of science.
Admission requirements
Bachelor’s degree with a specialization of at least 80 ECTS in philosophy or equivalent. A basic knowledge of history of philosophy is recommended.
Application code 9371
Objectives of the course
Knowledge
The student
- has comprehensive insight into selected debates in epistemology and philosophy of science.
- has acquired insight into issues on the foundation of the sciences.
- is familiar with recent research in the field.
Skills
The student can
- critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of competing perspectives in epistemology and philosophy of science.
- work independently on issues in epistemology and philosophy of science.
- engage with interdisciplinary perspectives, recognizing how epistemological frameworks influence scientific methodologies and vice versa.
- communicate research findings to a general audience.
Competence
The student is able to
- use relevant academic terminology.
- develop and defend philosophical arguments both orally and in writing, demonstrating precision, depth, and engagement with relevant literature.
- convey central topics and to explain technical terms to specialists as well as non-specialists.
Prerequisites
Anbefalte forkunnskaper
FIL-1025 Epistemology and philosophy of science, FIL-1027 Logic and Philosophy of Language, FIL-2051 Mind, knowledge, and reality
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
Lecturing: English Exam: English, Norwegian, or other Scandinavian languageSchedule
The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.
It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.
Information to incoming exchange students
Examination
| Oral exam | Duration: 30 Minutes Weighting: 1/1 |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
| Assignment | Weighting: 0/1 |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Written essay/presentation | Grade: Approved – not approved |
Everything you need to know about before, during, and after the exam; registration, absence, appeals, and diplomas: UiT Exams homepage
More info about the coursework requirements
The student must either complete a written essay (1200 - 1600 words (3-4 pages)) or give an oral presentation (15 minutes) of the topic and problem for the term paper within a given deadline.More info about the assignment
Individual term paper of 3200 - 4000 words (8-10 pages). The topic and problem for the term paper are clarified with the lecturer(s).
Your term paper is the foundation of the exam. It is graded on how well you:
- Show understanding of the relevant knowledge and theories.
- Build convincing and well-structured arguments.
- Present your ideas clearly and precisely.
More info about the oral exam
Individual oral exam of 30 minutes where both the term paper and other parts of the syllabus are discussed.
The oral exam is an opportunity to further develop and defend your work. The grade you received on the term paper can be adjusted here, primarily based on:
- How well you can explain and justify the theoretical choices and arguments made in your term paper.
- How well you can show critical knowledge of the course topics discussed in class and covered in the syllabus.