This course studies the nature and forms of idealization in the modern natural sciences, and the related operations of abstraction and mathematization. We will address the questions how the natural sciences idealize the world, how idealized models of the world can gain empirical support, and how idealizations can constitute applicable or useful knowledge. The course will yield deep insights into the natural sciences and how they differ from other disciplines that largely reject a programme of idealization, such as the human sciences. The discussion will be structured under the following headings: (1) Data, Patterns, and Reality; (2) Experiments and Thought Experiments; (3) Models, Abstraction, and Visualization.
Method of instruction
Research seminar
Examination
Class presentations and final paper
Required reading
A selection of books and journal articles, available in libraries; the reading list will be distributed at the beginning of the course.
Timetable
see Timetable MPhil in Philosophy: Rationality 2008-2009
Registration
Please register for this course with the student administration: y.van.eijk@phil.leidenuniv.nl
Information
dr. J.W. McAllister ( j.w.mcallister@phil.leidenuniv.nl)
Remarks
Optional research seminar for first-year students in specialisation Rationality and the Scientific Mind.