PSYCH 511
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Philosophy of Science for the Social Sciences
PsychologyCollege of Family, Home, and Social Sciences
Course Description
Issues in philosophy of science as they apply to social sciences, including methods, epistemology, and construction of knowledge.
When Taught
Winter
Min
3
Fixed/Max
3
Fixed
3
Fixed
0
Other Prerequisites
Instructor's consent or admission to PhD program
Title
Tracing Development of Science, Faith, and Reason
Learning Outcome
Students will understand the development of science in the Western intellectual tradition in the context of the related development of both faith and reason.
Title
Comparing Definitions and Limits of Science
Learning Outcome
Students will be able compare and contrast the various definitions and characterizations of science through Western history and the strengths and limitations of Empiricist science as a method for studying human beings and human experiences such as moral sensibility, and for establishing truth.
Title
Contrasting Gospel and Positivist Epistemologies
Learning Outcome
Students will compare and contrast the gospel of Jesus Christ as restored in the nineteenth century and its implications for the nature, possibility, and form of knowledge with Positivism, which was the dominant epistemological position of the nineteenth century, giving attention to issues of science and knowledge in both the nineteenth century and today.
Title
Analyzing Postmodern Influences on Knowledge and Faith
Learning Outcome
The contemporary culture and the intellectual landscape are currently dominated by post-modern perspectives. Students will be able to recognize and unpack the intellectual influences of postmodern philosophy on both the understanding and conduct of scientific research and on the dimensions and content of faith life.
