Theories of Scientific Method

The scientific method is one of humankind's best attempts at rationally uncovering the objective structure of the world. But what exactly is this method and in what sense is it rational? Studying the work of scientists such as Galileo, Copernicus, Newton, Darwin, and Einstein, we will explore philosophical questions about (a) the defining characteristics of the scientific method; (b) the soundness of various forms of scientific reasoning (Mill's Methods, Bayesianism, hypothetico-deductive reasoning, and inference to the best explanation); and (c) the objectivity of science. (Students who took PHIL 0212 may not take this course.) 3 hrs. lect.