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Michael Weisberg
For the last four centuries, scientists have aimed to provide us with an understanding of the world around us. By all appearances, science has made substantial progress during this time. But is this progress real or illusory? And if it is real, how has this progress been made? This four-week course will consider these important questions. Specific topics will include how scientists generate knowledge through observations, experiments, and simulations; scientific objectivity and failures of scientific objectivity; the self-correcting nature of the scientific community; the positive and negative influences that values can have on science; the relationship between science and religion; and the role of the public in guiding the scientific enterprise.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction and Core Examples
Scientific Methods
Scientific Objectivity
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction and Core Examples
Scientific Methods
Scientific Objectivity
Read more
Values in Science
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the scientific method and its role in generating knowledge, making it a valuable resource for those interested in research and academia
Suitable for students and professionals seeking a comprehensive understanding of the nature and history of scientific progress
Taught by Dr. Michael Weisberg, a respected philosopher of science
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Reviews summary
Philosophy of science: philosophical perspective
Learners say that this highly rated course provides engaging assignments and thought-provoking discussions in the philosophy of science. It is well structured with clear and articulate lectures. The course is a great introduction for both scientists and non-scientists with an interest in the field. Students appreciate the relevant examples used to illustrate concepts, including those from contemporary philosophers. Overall, learners report great experiences and come away with a deeper understanding of the scientific method, the scientific community, and the role of bias in science.
The course includes thought-provoking discussions that encourage critical thinking and deeper engagement with the material.
"The work required stretched me just enough out of my comfort zone, so that I had to recall my old study habits."
"I found the course material interesting and relevant, the balance between readings and lectures to be appropriate, and the discussions to be thought provoking."
The course has clear and well-articulated lectures that effectively convey course material.
"The course work was simple and well presented, as were the lectures."
"The lectures were coherent, concise, and well articulated, the readings were interesting but easy to grasp."
Learners appreciate the relevant examples used throughout the course, which help illustrate concepts and make the material more engaging.
"The examples the course instructor (Prof. Weisberg) would give whether it was to discuss objectivity or empiricism or ethics. They were much relevant that helped me understand the concept well."
"Its content is very suitable for a person starting out in the philosophy of science. I would like Dr. Weisberg to offer the next level of this course. Highly recommended!"
Learners praise the well structured nature of the course, which makes it easy to follow and understand.
"Excellent course with the expert guidance of Professor Michael Weisberg."
"This course is very insightful and well structured"
"Well structured course, Prof. Weisberg's videos were clear, articulate, Vanessa of the teaching staff was very supportive, encouraging, and engaged in participants' comments."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Philosophy of Science with these
activities:
Review scientific method
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of the basic principles of the scientific method and how it is used to generate knowledge.
Browse courses on
Scientific Method
Show steps
-
Read the assigned textbook chapters or online resources on the scientific method.
-
Summarize the key steps involved in the scientific method.
-
Identify examples of scientific studies that illustrate the scientific method in practice.
Attend a workshop on scientific writing or communication
Show steps
Enhance your scientific communication abilities by attending a workshop tailored to the specific needs of the course.
Show steps
-
Identify a workshop that focuses on scientific writing or communication.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the exercises and discussions.
-
Apply the techniques and strategies learned in the workshop to improve your scientific writing and communication skills.
Design and conduct simple experiments
Show steps
Develop your ability to design and conduct scientific experiments that test hypotheses and provide evidence to support or refute claims.
Browse courses on
Scientific Method
Show steps
-
Brainstorm a research question and develop a hypothesis.
-
Design an experiment to test the hypothesis, including controls and variables.
-
Conduct the experiment carefully and collect data.
-
Analyze the data and draw conclusions based on the results.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in peer review sessions
Show steps
Receive and provide feedback on your work to improve your understanding and identify areas for improvement.
Show steps
-
Exchange written work, such as essays or lab reports, with peers.
-
Provide constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement, focusing on both strengths and weaknesses.
-
Incorporate feedback into your own work to enhance its quality and clarity.
Read and discuss "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" by Thomas Kuhn
Show steps
Gain insights into the nature of scientific progress and the role of paradigm shifts in shaping scientific thought.
View
The Last Writings of Thomas S. Kuhn
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the assigned chapters of "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions".
-
Take notes on the key concepts and arguments presented in the book.
-
Discuss the book with classmates or a study group, sharing your insights and perspectives.
Develop a presentation on a scientific topic
Show steps
Enhance your communication skills and deepen your understanding of a chosen scientific topic by creating a presentation that summarizes and explains it.
Show steps
-
Select a scientific topic that interests you.
-
Research the topic thoroughly to gather accurate information and evidence.
-
Organize your presentation logically and visually, using clear and concise language.
-
Rehearse your presentation to ensure smooth delivery.
-
Present your work to classmates, professors, or a wider audience.
Participate in a science fair or competition
Show steps
Challenge yourself and showcase your scientific skills and knowledge by participating in a competitive environment.
Show steps
-
Identify a science fair or competition that aligns with your interests.
-
Develop a project that demonstrates your understanding of scientific principles and your ability to apply them.
-
Prepare for the competition by conducting thorough research and practicing presenting your work.
-
Attend the competition and present your project before judges and attendees.
Review scientific method
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of the basic principles of the scientific method and how it is used to generate knowledge.
Browse courses on
Scientific Method
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the assigned textbook chapters or online resources on the scientific method.
- Summarize the key steps involved in the scientific method.
- Identify examples of scientific studies that illustrate the scientific method in practice.
Attend a workshop on scientific writing or communication
Show steps
Enhance your scientific communication abilities by attending a workshop tailored to the specific needs of the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a workshop that focuses on scientific writing or communication.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in the exercises and discussions.
- Apply the techniques and strategies learned in the workshop to improve your scientific writing and communication skills.
Design and conduct simple experiments
Show steps
Develop your ability to design and conduct scientific experiments that test hypotheses and provide evidence to support or refute claims.
Browse courses on
Scientific Method
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm a research question and develop a hypothesis.
- Design an experiment to test the hypothesis, including controls and variables.
- Conduct the experiment carefully and collect data.
- Analyze the data and draw conclusions based on the results.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in peer review sessions
Show steps
Receive and provide feedback on your work to improve your understanding and identify areas for improvement.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Exchange written work, such as essays or lab reports, with peers.
- Provide constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement, focusing on both strengths and weaknesses.
- Incorporate feedback into your own work to enhance its quality and clarity.
Read and discuss "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" by Thomas Kuhn
Show steps
Gain insights into the nature of scientific progress and the role of paradigm shifts in shaping scientific thought.
View
The Last Writings of Thomas S. Kuhn
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the assigned chapters of "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions".
- Take notes on the key concepts and arguments presented in the book.
- Discuss the book with classmates or a study group, sharing your insights and perspectives.
Develop a presentation on a scientific topic
Show steps
Enhance your communication skills and deepen your understanding of a chosen scientific topic by creating a presentation that summarizes and explains it.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a scientific topic that interests you.
- Research the topic thoroughly to gather accurate information and evidence.
- Organize your presentation logically and visually, using clear and concise language.
- Rehearse your presentation to ensure smooth delivery.
- Present your work to classmates, professors, or a wider audience.
Participate in a science fair or competition
Show steps
Challenge yourself and showcase your scientific skills and knowledge by participating in a competitive environment.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a science fair or competition that aligns with your interests.
- Develop a project that demonstrates your understanding of scientific principles and your ability to apply them.
- Prepare for the competition by conducting thorough research and practicing presenting your work.
- Attend the competition and present your project before judges and attendees.
Career center
Learners who complete Philosophy of Science will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science writers interpret and convey scientific information to the general public, including scientific discoveries, new theories, and technological advancements. To excel in this role, a strong understanding of the nature of science is crucial. The Philosophy of Science course delves into how scientific knowledge is generated, the objectivity of science, and the influences that values have on it, providing a comprehensive foundation for science writers to effectively communicate science to diverse audiences.
Science Communicator
Science Communicator
Science communicators help bridge the gap between the scientific community and the public, translating complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging content. To be successful in this role, a deep understanding of science and its methodologies is paramount. The Philosophy of Science course explores the foundations of science, scientific methods, and the role of values in scientific inquiry, equipping science communicators with the knowledge to effectively convey scientific information to non-expert audiences.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
Policy advisors provide expert advice to policymakers on complex issues related to science and technology. To make informed recommendations, a strong understanding of the scientific process and the interplay between science and policy is essential. The Philosophy of Science course examines the nature of scientific knowledge, the limitations of scientific objectivity, and the influence of values on science, providing valuable insights for policy advisors to navigate the complex landscape of science policy.
Science Editor
Science Editor
Science editors review, edit, and publish scientific articles and books, ensuring their accuracy and clarity. To succeed in this role, a strong grasp of scientific concepts and the principles of scientific writing is necessary. The Philosophy of Science course provides a deep understanding of the nature of science, scientific methods, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, equipping science editors with the knowledge to critically evaluate scientific content and make informed editorial decisions.
Science Journalist
Science Journalist
Science journalists report on the latest scientific discoveries and advancements, translating complex scientific concepts into digestible and engaging stories for the general public. To excel in this role, a strong understanding of science and its methodologies is essential. The Philosophy of Science course provides a thorough grounding in the foundations of science, scientific methods, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, equipping science journalists with the knowledge to accurately interpret and convey scientific information.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
Science teachers educate students about scientific concepts and principles, fostering their scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. To be effective in this role, a deep understanding of science and its methodologies is crucial. The Philosophy of Science course explores the nature of scientific knowledge, the role of evidence in science, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, providing science teachers with a strong foundation to engage students and nurture their scientific curiosity.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct scientific investigations and experiments to advance knowledge in various fields. To be successful in this role, a strong understanding of the scientific process and the principles of scientific inquiry is essential. The Philosophy of Science course provides a comprehensive overview of the foundations of science, scientific methods, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, providing researchers with a solid foundation to design and execute rigorous scientific studies.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory technicians assist scientists and researchers in conducting experiments and analyzing data. To be effective in this role, a solid understanding of scientific principles and laboratory procedures is necessary. The Philosophy of Science course explores the nature of scientific knowledge, the role of evidence in science, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, providing laboratory technicians with a strong foundation to support scientific research effectively.
Science Librarian
Science Librarian
Science librarians assist researchers, students, and the general public in finding and accessing scientific information. To be successful in this role, a strong understanding of scientific concepts and the principles of scientific research is necessary. The Philosophy of Science course provides a deep understanding of the nature of science, scientific methods, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, equipping science librarians with the knowledge to effectively navigate and organize scientific information.
Science Policy Analyst
Science Policy Analyst
Science policy analysts evaluate and advise on the potential impacts of scientific and technological advancements on society and the environment. To be effective in this role, a strong understanding of science, technology, and public policy is necessary. The Philosophy of Science course explores the nature of scientific knowledge, the limitations of scientific objectivity, and the influence of values on science, providing science policy analysts with a valuable foundation to analyze and shape science policy effectively.
Patent Examiner
Patent Examiner
Patent examiners review and evaluate patent applications to ensure they meet the criteria for patentability, including novelty and non-obviousness. To be successful in this role, a strong understanding of science and technology is essential. The Philosophy of Science course provides a deep understanding of the nature of science, scientific methods, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, equipping patent examiners with the knowledge to effectively assess the novelty and non-obviousness of inventions.
Science Museum Curator
Science Museum Curator
Science museum curators develop and manage exhibits that educate the public about science and technology. To be effective in this role, a strong understanding of science and its history is necessary. The Philosophy of Science course explores the nature of scientific knowledge, the evolution of scientific thought, and the influence of values on science, providing science museum curators with a valuable foundation to design and curate engaging and informative exhibits.
Science Photographer
Science Photographer
Science photographers capture images and videos to illustrate and document scientific concepts and discoveries. To be successful in this role, a strong understanding of science and its visual representation is necessary. The Philosophy of Science course explores the nature of scientific knowledge, the limitations of scientific objectivity, and the influence of values on science, providing science photographers with a valuable foundation to create visually compelling and accurate representations of science.
Science Educator
Science Educator
Science educators develop and deliver educational programs that teach science concepts and principles to students at all levels. To be effective in this role, a deep understanding of science and its methodologies is essential. The Philosophy of Science course explores the nature of scientific knowledge, the role of evidence in science, and the influence of values on scientific inquiry, providing science educators with a strong foundation to design and deliver engaging and effective science education programs.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bf5caw/philosophy
Reading list
We've selected 20 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Philosophy of Science.
Save
Provides students with a clear and concise overview of the theoretical themes and problems in philosophy of science. It helpful starting point for students whose background in philosophy is weak or who have not had a formal introduction to the discipline.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophy of science, covering topics such as the nature of scientific knowledge, the scientific method, and the relationship between science and society. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the foundations of science.
Introduces students to the most important thinkers and ideas in the philosophy of science. It comprehensive and up-to-date textbook that serves as a great reference tool for students at all levels.
Aims to teach students how to effectively evaluate the validity and reliability of scientific claims. Written in an engaging and accessible style, this book provides practical tools and guidance that allow students to apply scientific thinking to the world around them.
This classic work in the philosophy of science argues that science progresses through a series of revolutions, each of which involves a fundamental change in the way that scientists think about the world. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the history and philosophy of science.
Save
Provides students with a thorough and critical examination of the major problems and debates in the philosophy of science. It thought-provoking read that forces students to engage with the most important questions surrounding the nature of science.
Save
Social and cultural history of the Scientific Revolution. It provides an in-depth look at how science emerged and developed in its early modern context.
This classic work explores the process of scientific change and the dynamics of scientific communities.
Save
Sets out Popper's influential falsification theory of science. It challenges the traditional view that science is based on induction and argues that science progresses through the falsification of theories.
Provides a philosophical examination of the concept of objectivity in science. It argues that objectivity is not a property of individual scientists or scientific theories, but rather a feature of the scientific community as a whole. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the role of objectivity in science.
Save
Provides a historical overview of the relationship between science and religion. It argues that science and religion have always been in dialogue with each other, and that their relationship has been shaped by a variety of factors, including cultural, political, and intellectual.
Provides a very short introduction to the philosophy of science. It covers a wide range of topics, including the nature of scientific knowledge, the scientific method, and the relationship between science and society. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy of science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between science, technology, and society. It discusses the ways in which science and technology have shaped society, and the ways in which society has shaped science and technology. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the complex relationship between science, technology, and society.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of science. It covers a wide range of topics, from the ancient world to the present day. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of science. It covers a wide range of topics, from the ancient world to the present day. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophy of science. It covers a wide range of topics, from the nature of scientific knowledge to the scientific method. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy of science.
Save
This online encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophy of science. It covers a wide range of topics, from the nature of scientific knowledge to the scientific method. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy of science.
Save
This online database provides access to a wide range of academic papers in philosophy. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy of science.
This online database provides access to a wide range of academic journals. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy of science.
This online database provides access to a wide range of academic journals. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the philosophy of science.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bf5caw/philosophy
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Effort
2-3 hours per week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Pennsylvania
Instructor
Michael Weisberg
Language
English
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Good to know
Examines the scientific method and its role in generating knowledge, making it a valuable resource for those interested in research and academia
Suitable for students and professionals seeking a comprehensive understanding of the nature and history of scientific progress
Taught by Dr. Michael Weisberg, a respected philosopher of science
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