180175 SE Introduction to Philosophy of Biology (2022S)

In accordance with the current University of Vienna COVID-19 guidelines, the course is planned the take place entirely on-site. If the situation so demands, there might be changes to this (e.g. individual classes in a digital format).

The course acts as a broad introduction to the various issues in contemporary philosophy of biological science. Topics include explanation in the life sciences (laws, models, mechanisms), the nature of evolutionary theory, reductionism & biological functions, evolutionary contingency and the biological basis of mind and social behaviour. The philosophical topics are approached from a pragmatic and scientifically-informed perspective and the readings are accompanied by scientific journal articles and other resources.

Having taken the course the students should be able to navigate the conceptual landscape of contemporary philosophy of biology. Besides being able to take part in philosophical argumentation, the students will also learn about the naturalistic approach to philosophy of science, where conceptual philosophical work is developed in close connection to actual scientific practices and results.

Methods include close reading and critical discussion of the literature (concepts, themes, arguments), written reflections of the articles, (co-)chairing the group discussion, and a short presentation of an article of interest.