PHIL2082 Sex and Death: the Philosophy of Biology
Later Year Course
| Offered By | School of Humanities |
|---|---|
| Academic Career | Undergraduate |
| Course Subject | Philosophy |
| Offered in | First Semester, 2009 |
| Unit Value | 6 units |
| Course Description |
This course asks what we know about biology at a general, conceptual level. It looks particularly at evolutionary biology and genetics, and related topics in philosophy of science, history of science and sociology of science. Specific topics include: * the diversity of life on (and off) Earth * Darwinism and natural selection * environment and inheritance * causation and biological determinism * competing definitions of "gene" * genes and developmental constraints * are genes real? * altruism and group selection * organisms, groups and superorganisms * are species real? |
| Learning Outcomes |
An understanding of current issues in evolutionary biology and genetics from a conceptual perspective, with applications in scientific and political debates. An appreciation of some of the methods of philosophy of science. A habit of educated questioning of scientific orthodoxy.
|
| Indicative Assessment |
Four short exercises (weeks 3, 5, 7 and 9), each worth 10% of the total mark for the course: total 40%. One essay of 2000 words: 40%. Class participation: 20%.
|
| Workload |
20 hours of lectures and 12 hours of tutorials. |
| Areas of Interest | Philosophy |
|
Assumed Knowledge and Required Skills |
Very little actual knowledge will be assumed, but an interest in biology and an ability to pick up a smattering of biology quickly will be assumed. Students who have not taken biology to at least high school level should contact the lecturer before enrolling.
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| Requisite Statement |
Two courses in Philosophy, Biology, Psychology, or Anthropology or permission of the Coordinator. |
| Prescribed Texts | "Sex and Death" by Kim Sterelny and Paul Griffiths, Chicago University Press, Chicago (1999). (approx. $35) |
| Majors/Specialisations | Health, Medicine and Body and Philosophy |
| Other Information |
This course can be counted as a Group B course towards a degree of Bachelor of Science. |
| Science Group | B |
| Academic Contact | Jason Grossman |
The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.
