Philosophy and Ethics of Science
About the course
This course cannot be taken as a singular course. This course is recommended as part of the compulsory credits in philosophy of science and research ethics within the instruction component of the PhD programs in natural and social sciences.
The course aims to introduce PhD students to core issues connecting philosophy of science and research ethics. The course explains different concepts and positions regarding the nature of the scientific method, modelling, causality, the role of science and technology in society, diversity, ethical theories, as well as the ethical responsibilities of scientists in knowledge production, dissemination, and reception.
Admission requirements
The course is open for UiT students admitted to a PhD program. Priority will be given to PhD students from the BFE faculty, PhD students from the NT faculty, PhD students from other faculties at UiT, and PhD students from UNIS. The number of participants is limited to 60.
Contact Ingjerd Gauslaa Nilsen (ingjerd.nilsen@uit.no) at the BFE-faculty if you have any questions regarding course registration or other queries.
Objectives of the course
Upon completion of the course, the PhD candidates will have developed
Knowledge:
- knowledge of the philosophy of science, such as the demarcation problem, the debate among competing accounts of the scientific method, the problem of induction, and the concepts of paradigms and scientific revolutions
- substantial insight in how to apply principles of research ethics and understand the idea of integrity
- understanding of the role and place of science and technology in modern societies, including epistemological and ethical challenges
- knowledge of fundamental concepts and theories from philosophy of science and ethics
- understanding of the contemporary debates about the nature and role of science in academia and society
Skills:
the ability to
- apply fundamental ethical principles in guidelines and legislation, including issues of research integrity, and avoiding misconducts
- promote equality and diversity, in words, actions, and conduct, across disciplines and sectors
- communicate key philosophical and ethical concepts and engage in contemporary debates about the nature and role of science
- see their own research in a wider perspective, and creatively reflect upon the basic assumptions and challenges of their research projects
General competences:
the ability to
- apply knowledge and skills above to carry out advanced assignments on philosophy and/or ethics of science, relevant to their research practice and field
- communicate and cooperate with scientists/researchers from other fields with a clear and understandable language.
Credit reduction
If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:
- BIO-8603 Philosophy of science and ethics 6 ects
- HEL-8010 Research Ethics and Theory of Science 3 ects
- SVF-8054 Theory of Science 7 ects
- SVF-8038 Research Ethics 3 ects
- HEL-8040 Theory of science, research ethics and research design 3 ects
- SVH-8005 Research Ethics 3 ects
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
EnglishRecommended reading/syllabus
Du kan se og få tilgang til deler av pensum via Leganto.
Pensumliste for SVF-8600 Philosophy and Ethics of Science (VÅR 2025)Examination
| Assignment |
Grade: Passed / Not Passed |
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Participation and attendance in lectures and seminars | Grade: Approved – not approved |
| Pre-assignment | Grade: Approved – not approved |
| Title, objective, and outline of essay | Grade: Approved – not approved |
| Participation in essay supervision | Grade: Approved – not approved |
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