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HPSC1001: What is This Thing Called Science?

Semester 2, 2025

Overview

This Unit of Study explores the very nature of science and how it is practised.Using contemporary and historical scientific examples, the unit looks into whether a sharp line can be drawn between science and non-science, and what criteria can be used to distinguish science from pseudoscience. Various tools of science will be examined philosophically and  historically, including theories, models, explanations, data analysis and concepts. The unit also looks into the ways in which science is a social process, with an emphasis on values, biases, and the  institutionalized organization of science. To complete this broad overview, topics such as science denialism (not accepting various bodies of scientific knowledge) and scientism (valuing science above all other knowledge systems)willalso be addressed.

Unit details and rules

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. understand philosophical and historical discussions of science and critically assess arguments in these areas

LO2. write clear and well-organized responses to philosophical and historical discussions of science, and develop your own views on these issues

LO3. relate general philosophical and historical ideas about science to particular examples of scientific work.