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Philosophy of Science
Philosophie der Naturwissenschaften
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:47
Abstract
This introductory lecture presents and discusses key topics in the philosophy of science. Topics covered include scientific explanation, causality, natural laws, and scientific realism. In addition to philosophical problems in quantum mechanics and evolutionary theory, the lecture concludes with a discussion of the limits of science.
Objective
The seminar deals with basic questions of philosophy of science that every scientist should be aware of. Participants will learn to address these questions and will be guided to reflect on their self-understanding as scientists.
Content
In this introductory lecture, central problems of philosophy of science will be introduced and discussed together. These problems include, for example, what an explanation is, whether laws of nature correspond to actual constraints in nature or whether they serve us as a means of describing nature, what a scientific theory is in the first place, whether the terms used in theories, such as "electric field strength", correspond to something in reality, or whether they are mere tools of description, whether there are causal powers behind observed regularities, to what extent science is about truth, when it is clear that scientific models do not actually match reality, or finally whether higher level theories like thermodynamics can be reduced to lower level theories like statistical mechanics. In addition, science itself will be questioned philosophically: How do theories evolve, how can science be distinguished from pseudoscience, what role do experiments play in science, and is there any such thing as a neutral view on reality independent of theoretical presuppositions?
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 120
- Signup End
- 05.10.2026
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Philosophie der Naturwissenschaften | No time listed | 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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