Course
Theory of Science and Ethics (TN900)
Theory of science will be discussed, and emphasis will be placed on describing how a scientific knowledge of nature emerges and that our knowledge of nature has been and is under development. The creative process in research will be emphasized. The structure of a scientific theory will be discussed, and each of the elements of the structure (assumptions, deductions, statements and testing), and the interconnection between them will be thoroughly discussed and illustrated by examples from the history of science.
The Ethics component of the course will address adaptation of fundamental ethical principles to scientific activity, herein prevention of plagiarism and other scientific misconduct.
Dette er emnebeskrivelsen for studieåret 2025-2026. Merk at det kan komme endringer.
Fakta
Emnekode
TN900
Vekting (stp)
5
Semester undervisningsstart
Spring
Undervisningsspråk
English, Norwegian
Antall semestre
1
Vurderingssemester
Spring
Content
Theory of science will be discussed, and emphasis will be placed on describing how a scientific knowledge of nature emerges and that our knowledge of nature has been and is under development. The creative process in research will be emphasized. The structure of a scientific theory will be discussed, and each of the elements of the structure (assumptions, deductions, statements and testing), and the interconnection between them will be thoroughly discussed and illustrated by examples from the history of science.
The Ethics component of the course will address adaptation of fundamental ethical principles to scientific activity, herein prevention of plagiarism and other scientific misconduct.
Learning outcome
Upon completion of the course the students shall be able to understand the distinctive character of natural science, and understand that knowledge of nature is under development (through examples of the history of science). Further, they shall have acquired insight in the creative process, which in turn will increase the students own ability to think creatively, i.e. to approach a problem from a variety of angles. The students shall be able to understand the basis of scientific disagreement and to contribute in a constructive manner in public debate.
In addition, the students should:
Have familiarity with their subjects ohillisophy of science, issues and methods (K1)
Be able to identify new relevant ethic challenges and conduct their research with integrity (G1)
Forkunnskapskrav
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Article | 1/1 | 1 Semesters | Passed / Not Passed |
The course is assessed on the basis of a submitted article. It can be written between the last of three lectures in January or the beginning of February and a date in May that we will be informed about by the examination office.