MATTHEW H. SLATER
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      • PHIL 311: Socializing Epistemology
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      • Are Species Real?
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PHIL 272:
Philosophy of Biology

A study of the conceptual issues that stem from various of the biological sciences, with a particular emphasis on evolution and the environment.

Fall 2021
T/R 8:30–9:50AM

CCC Credits: AHLG, ENVC

Course Description

The science of life provides no shortage of opportunities for philosophical reflection. From the question of what life itself is (is it definable? are viruses alive?), to questions about ourselves and our environment (is there such a thing as "human nature"; what do we mean when we talk about "the environment"?) and foundational questions about modern evolutionary theory, this course will introduce students to what philosophy’s spotlight can illuminate when trained on this diverse discipline. We'll also consider potential interactions between philosophy and biology. For example, is it possible to make sense of the idea of "de-extinction"? If we can resurrect some species from extinction, should we? Can biology insight into the nature and origins of human morality?

The course will primarily function as a seminar, with student presentations setting the tone and directing the discussion. Course grades will be based on the quality of students’ preparation for class, short response writings, and a final research essay. Officially PHIL 100 is a pre-requisite, but I am willing to waive it for biology and environmental studies students willing to work at a certain level of abstraction. Just send me an email with your BUID and a description of your relevant interests / experience.

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  • Home
  • Teaching
    • Current and Future Courses >
      • PHIL 103: Logic
    • Previous Courses >
      • RESC 098: Revolutions in Scientific Understanding
      • PHIL 100: Philosophy in Film
      • PHIL 100: Belief & Reality
      • UNIV 200: Climate Change
      • PHIL 201: Symbolic Logic
      • PHIL 220: Philosophy of Science
      • PHIL 222: Analytic Philosophy
      • PHIL 224: Epistemology
      • PHIL 268: Science in the Public Eye
      • PHIL 272: Philosophy of Biology
      • PHIL 311: Socializing Epistemology
    • Student Resources >
      • Writing Resources
      • Presentation Advice
      • Recommendations
    • Calendar
  • Research
    • Books >
      • Are Species Real?
      • The Nature of Biological Kinds
    • Published & Forthcoming
    • Current Projects
    • The Production of Public Understanding of Science
  • Personal
  • Photography
  • Blog