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The Demarcation Problem
Das Demarkationsproblem
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:27
Abstract
Is there criterion for the quality of something being "scientific"? This is the so called demarcation problem. It is part of philosophy of science. The course treats central concepts and debates within that field.
Objective
Knowing central concepts and debates within philosophy of science, being able to differentiate between descriptive and normative approaches, develop a sensitivity for the (changeable) relation between science and society, being able to analyze and evaluate on one's own texts in philosophy of science.
Content
What qualifies the empirical sciences? What guarantees its success? What differentiates it from other practices also called scientific or from such presenting themselves as scientific without being it, the so called pseudosciences? Asking that sort of questions means looking for a demarcation criterion, a criterion that should guarantee the sciences being scientific. This is surprisingly hard to do. In this course some of the numerous attempts to define some such criterion will be discussed. Doing this will imply to critically question also the methods as well as the rationality of the empirical sciences and have a look at its social embededness.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 40
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Das Demarkationsproblem |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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