Summary

The course considers central themes in the philosophy of science, such as scientific realism and the ontology of physics. Starting from the debate between Leibniz and Newton about space and time, we move on to the transition from classical to quantum physics and the explanatory role of mathematics.

Content

Keywords

History and philosophy of science, philosophy of physics, philosophy of mathematics

POLY-perspective :

• interdisciplinary perspective
• global perspective

https://www.epfl.ch/schools/cdh/cdhs-vision/

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Argue
• Formulate
• Systematize
• Develop

Transversal skills

• Assess progress against the plan, and adapt the plan as appropriate.
• Communicate effectively, being understood, including across different languages and cultures.

Teaching methods

Ex cathedra course, project work, student presentation of projects

Expected student activities

Class participation and working in groups.

Assessment methods

Oral presentation, written essay in small groups.
Evaluation on a semester basis (grade associated to 3 ECTS). Fall semester evaluation is about knowledge acquisition and the elaboration of a project plan. Spring semester evaluation is about the realization of the project. More information is given at the beginning of the academic year.

Supervision

Resources

Bibliography

Given in class

Websites

• http://www.unil.ch/philo/page60364.html