Last modified: 24 May 2018 14:59
Over the last decades philosophy of biology has matured into a dynamic field of philosophical inquiry. Apart from reflecting on specific findings and controversies within the life sciences, such inquiry can shed light on debates in general philosophy of science and philosophy of mind. This course examines both classical topics and more recent developments. It will address questions such as: Do genes really carry information or is this just a metaphor? What does it mean to say that the function of the heart is to pump blood? Are biological species natural kinds? Do animals have beliefs and desires?
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 30 credits (15 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Old Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
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Content: The life sciences cover a broad range of disciplines, from molecular genetics, neuroscience and developmental biology to physiology, evolutionary biology, ethology, and ecology. Philosophers of biology explore the key concepts and fundamental methodologies employed in these disciplines. Over the last decades philosophy of biology has matured into a separate and dynamic field of philosophical inquiry. Apart from reflecting on specific findings and controversies within the life sciences, such exploration can shed light on debates in general philosophy of science and philosophy of mind. This course provides an introduction to the field by examining some classical topics as well as more recent developments. It will address questions such as: Do genes really carry information or is "information" simply a colourful metaphor for ordinary causal processes? What does it mean to say that the function of the heart is to pump blood? Can such teleological descriptions be "naturalised"? Do biological species have essences or are they collections of spatio-temporally extended objects? Are we ever justified in attributing beliefs and desires to animals?
No advanced knowledge of biology is required. The biological background will be provided in the lectures and tutorials/seminars. Students should be willing to familiarize themselves with this background.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st attempt:
Participation (10%)
Presentation (10%)
Pre-tutorial quizzes (20%)
Essay (25%)
Take-home exam (35%)
Feedback on essays; individually arranged conversations during office hours/by appointment.
Written on essay and marking sheet; office hours/appointment.
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