Introduction to Philosophy of Science

This course considers a variety of questions in the philosophy of science, including: What is the nature of science? What is a scientific hypothesis, theory, law? What is the role of induction and deduction in science? The course considers the claims of science to objective knowledge by looking at the interplay of different forces in scientific decision-making, such as simplicity, and social, cultural, and prudential influences. No background or ability in science is presupposed beyond an interest in the subject matter.