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Introduction into the philosophy of biology
Einführung in die Philosophie der Biologie
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:19:12
Abstract
"Information" is a term in different fields of biology, like genetics, neurobiology and immunology. In this course we will look at the different uses of the concept of information and ask if they have meaning as the ones in semantics, information-technology or thermodynamics.
Objective
The course will give an introduction into the philosophical problems of biology. These concern the following concepts: life, information, evolution, goal-directedness, environment.
Content
"Information" is a term in different fields of biology, like genetics, neurobiology and immunology. The term originates in the platonic-aristotelian metaphysics, wehre forms in-form bits of matter in such a way that distinguishable individuals arise. In this course we will look at the different uses of the concept of information and ask if they have meaning as the ones in semantics, information-technology or thermodynamics.To get two credit points one has to prepare a text for discussion or to write a critical protokoll of one of the sessions (5 to 7 pages).
Resources
Literature
Will be given at the beginning of the course.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar |
Einführung in die Philosophie der Biologie
Der biologische Informationsbegriff
|
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (In order to be awarded credits, please register under "Pflichtwahlfach GESS"!. The language courses are offered by the ETH and University of Zurich Language Center.)
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Compulsory Electives GESS (Categorically all students at ETH Zurich are required to obtain 8 credit points (ECTS) within the frame of this elective course program throughout their studies; 6 credit points during the bachelor and 2 for the master. Some of the lectures are part of other departments’ curricula. Further information can be found in the course catalog or at the particular student offices.)
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