Theory of Science in Biology

The course runs every year.
The aim of the course is (1) to provide an introduction to basic scientific theory and (2) to focus on central theoretical questions in biological science. The general part of the course will be concerned with fundamental concepts such as theories, hypotheses and laws. The building of knowledge through theory development and testing is discussed.. In this context concepts such as falsification, truth, objectivity, deduction and induction is dealt with. The emphasis is on how scientific hypotheses can be falsified or verified. Different views on the nature of science (instrumentalism, empiricism, realism) are briefly discussed.

The biological part of the course is concerned with basic questions in scientific theory important for studies in biology. Particular emphasis is (1) on the scientific theoretical foundation of biological science and, with a special focus on the theory of evolution, and (2) on the philosophical basis for controversial issues in the borderline between biology and society(creationism, soscobiology).
Overall, the course takes a practical approach and relates to challenges and questions emerging in graduate scientific projects.

Knowledge
The candidate will get knowledge of:
- Central issues in general and biological theory of science
- The structure and characteristics of scientific explanations
- How to test scientific explanations
- Theories and hypotheses
- Relationships between observations and theory
- Objectivity and subjectivity in science
- Central issues in the borderline between biology and society (e.g. the creationism debate, the nature-nurture debate)

Skills
The candidate will be skilled on:
- Evaluate own science, and that of other scientists, in relation to the fundamental principles of the theory and methodology of science
- Critically assess the potential and limitations of scientific investigations
- Reflect critically upon the role of science in society
- Explain and discuss fundamental issues in the philosophy of science
- Present and discuss important issues in the borderline between science and society

Generel competance
The candidate will get competence on:
- Have a comprehensive understanding of what science is, and the role of science in society
- Communicate the basic principles of modern science, and relevant related issues
- Have a solid understanding of what makes science unique as means to understand the world around us, and be able to communicate this understanding
- Perform his/her own science, and assess science done by others, on the basis of modern principles of science

Seminar: 28 hours, mandatory