History and Philosophy of Science - 2008

From Plato to Einstein and Science, Philosophy and History

Introduction

History and Philosophy of Science (HPS) asks questions about the nature of science as an activity and about its place in modern society.

• If science tells the truth, why, for example, do scientists sometimes say one thing (that dinosaurs were cold-blooded) and then later say the opposite (that dinosaurs were warm-blooded)?
• How much influence in society should scientists have?
• What influence did thinkers like Aristotle, Newton and Einstein have on our understanding of the physical world?
• How does science relate to other traditions of thought like philosophy or religion?

Career Opportunities

Most students take HPS as part of an Arts or Science degree. We recommend that students majoring in HPS combine their HPS studies with another major area of study. Successful HPS students better understand how science and technology work and can more intelligently analyse the society we live in and its scientific and technological debates. Some graduates will pursue careers which draw primarily on these skills in science itself, in industry, teaching, journalism, health education, in museums, in developing governmental science and technology policy.

VCE Prerequisites

Completion of Humanities and/or Science subjects in Year 11 and enrolment in Humanities and /or Science subjects 3/4 in Year 12. Students must obtain an A/A+ average in the subject areas mentioned, and a B+ average across non prerequisite subjects.

Teaching Location

All classes are taught at the University of Melbourne.

Contact Hours

• Total class hours per week: 3
• Total days per week: 2

Credit Arrangements

See Credit Policy for further information.

Subject Descriptions

Both subjects must be successfully completed in order to obtain the ENTER increment.

Semester 1

136-111 From Plato to Einstein

Semester 2

136-105 Science, Philosophy and History

More Information

Enquiries
Tel: 8344 5142

School of Philosophy
Ground Floor, Old Quad Building
The University of Melbourne VIC 3010

Web: www.hps.unimelb.edu.au