VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

851-0163-00L 3 Credits DS , MSC D-GESS

Philosophy of Nature After Darwin

Naturphilosophie nach Darwin

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:40

Abstract

Already Schelling used the concept of "evolution" in his philosophy of nature. But after Darwin the concept gains an enormous relevance. In this seminar we will read and analyse of conceptions of philosophy of natur starting from Schelling (1800) to the present time (Nagel, Latour).

Objective

Students should develop an understanding of the interrealtion between philosophical and scientific formation of concepts by looking at the example of the concept of evolution and they will get an overview of the history of philosophy of nature.

Content

Already Schelling used the concept of "evolution" in his philosophy of nature. But after Darwin the concept gains an enormous relevance. In this seminar we will read and analyse of conceptions of philosophy of nature starting from Schelling (1800) to the present time (Nagel, Latour). We will both look at philosophical texts of a more technical character (e.g. by Charles Sanders Peirce) and at texts that address a wider audience and try to intervene politically (by Haeckel and Latour).

General Information

Language
German
Levels
DS , MSC

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Registration & Places

Max Places
30

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar Naturphilosophie nach Darwin
  • Tue 16:00-18:00 (ON LI NE)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • GESS Science in Perspective (Only the topics listed in this paragraph can be chosen as GESS Science in Perspective. Further below you will find the "type B courses Reflections about subject specific methods and content" as well as the language courses. 6 ECTS need to be acquired during the BA and 2 ECTS during the MA Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again.)
    • Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses: Recommended for doctoral, master and bachelor students (after first-year examination only). Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again. These course units are also listed under "Type A", which basically means all students can enroll)