Course

Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences

The University of Edinburgh

Delve into the captivating world of Philosophy and the Physical Sciences with this enlightening course. Explore pressing questions arising at the juncture of philosophy and physical sciences, such as the origin and evolution of the universe, dark matter, dark energy, and the anthropic principle.

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of key questions and conceptual issues in the natural sciences.
  • Develop critical skills to evaluate and assess complex problems at the forefront of scientific research.
  • Discover the origins of the universe, the enigma of dark matter and dark energy, and the intriguing anthropic principle.

Certificate Available ✔

Get Started / More Info
Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences
Course Modules

Embark on a journey through five engaging modules exploring the intersection of philosophy and the physical sciences. Delve into the nature of science, the origins of the universe, dark matter and energy, the anthropic principle, and more.

What is this thing called science? (Michela Massimi and Duncan Pritchard)

Module 1 introduces the fundamental questions at the intersection of philosophy and physical sciences. Gain insights into the nature of science, including epistemic relativism, inductivism, and falsificationism. Explore the concept of scientific realism and engage in critical evaluation of these philosophical concepts.

Week 2: The origins of our universe (Michela Massimi and John Peacock)

Module 2 delves into the origins of the universe, providing a historical perspective on cosmology and scientific methodology. Gain a comprehensive overview of modern cosmology, unobservability, and indistinguishable spacetimes. Engage in critical discussions on Popper and cosmology.

Week 3: Dark Matter and Dark Energy (Michela Massimi and John Peacock)

Module 3 explores the intriguing realms of dark matter and dark energy. Understand the prospects for cosmology and delve into the underdetermination of theory by evidence. Engage with philosophical discussions on the frontiers of cosmology and the underdetermination of cosmology.

Week 4: The anthropic principle and multiverse cosmology (Alasdair Richmond and John Peacock)

Module 4 delves into the anthropic principle and multiverse cosmology, offering insights into the philosophical implications of these concepts. Gain an understanding of inflationary cosmology and the fine-tuning of the multiverse. Engage in critical thinking through an essay on the philosophy of cosmology.

Philosophy and the Sciences Part 2

Philosophy and the Sciences Part 2 - Content pending

More Philosophy Courses

Ancient Philosophy: Aristotle and His Successors

University of Pennsylvania

Explore the origins of Western philosophy, from the Presocratic natural philosophers to the development of elaborate philosophical systems by Plato, Aristotle, and...

In Search for the Origins of Korean Philosophy

Sungkyunkwan University

This course delves into the formative years of Korean culture, exploring the origins of Korean identity, language, and thought. Gain insights into the coexistence...

Science & Religion 101

University of Alberta

Science & Religion 101 offers an in-depth exploration of the relationship between science and religion, dispelling the myth of perpetual conflict and advocating...

《新教伦理与资本主义精神》导读

Fudan University

Discover the profound insights of Max Weber's "The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism" in this course, exploring the historical and cultural...