180215 PS Multiple Realization (2020W)

The multiple realizability thesis, as introduced by Hilary Putnam in the 1960's and later developed by other philosophers, has become one of the most influential antireductionist arguments in contemporary analytic philosophy. However, its validity has recently been contested on several fronts. The course surveys and critically examines the history and recent debates surrounding multiple realizability. The aim is to use this rich argumentative context to assess question related not only to reductionism, but also further topics in the philosophy of mind, metaphysics and philosophy of science, including modality, explanation and the nature and testing of philosophical theories.

Methods include close reading and critical discussion of the literature (concepts, themes, arguments), written reflections and Q&A of the articles in Moodle, and a thesis-oriented essay.