Philosophical Perspectives on
Science
MSc in Science
Communication
MSc in Science Education
Dr
Helena Sheehan
Dr Donal O Mathuna
Aims:
- to articulate the range of
philosophical,
sociological
and cultural perspectives on science
- to examine the socio-historical roots
of
the contemporary
crisis in confidence in science
- to analyse various critiques of
science as
well
as various defenses of science in response to such critiques
- to explore ethical dimensions of
contemporary science & healthcare
Themes:
- narratives of
science
- sociology of
knowledge
as applied
to science
- ideological
dimensions
of science
- competing
epistemological positions
on science
- ethical issues in
science & healthcare
Assessment:
Marks will be based on course
diaries and presentation & participation in class
debates. There will be no exam.
Debates:
* science wars radio show 98
* science wars 99
* science and religion 99