Science in Context

Timetable

Module aim (aims)

1 to make students aware of the issues related to the determinants of science (anthropological as well as philosophical and historical context)
2 to acquaint students with texts on the development of science and its anthropological conditions
3 to practice the ability to interpret a text concerning the determinants of science
4 to equip students with the ability to participate in discussions about science

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

Syllabus

1. Myth and philosophy (fragments from mythical works, presocratic philosophers and Plato's dialogues – Gorgias, Menon, Phaedo, Timaeus, Kritias) – analysis of the text and discussion.
2. Orality versus literacy (Phaedrus, Plato's Letter VII) – analysis of the text and discussion.
3. Attempts to define knowledge (Theaetetus) – analysis of the text and discussion.

Reading list

Obligatory

1. Kirk G.S., Raven J. E., Schofield M., The Presocratic Philosophers, Cambridge 1976.
2. Plato, Gorgias
3. Plato, Meno
4. Plato, Phaedo
5. Plato, Timaeus
6. Plato, Critias
7. Plato, Phaedrus
8. Plato, The Seventh Letter
9. Plato, Theaetetus

Optional

1. Havelock E., Preface to Plato, Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, Cambridge-London 1963.
2. Kuhn T., Metaphor in Science. in: Kuhn T., The Road since Structure, Chicago-London 2000, p. 196–207.
3. Lakoff G., Johnson M., Metaphors We Live by, The University of Chicago Press, Chicago-London 1980.
4. Ong W., Orality and Literacy. The Technologizing of the Word (many releases).
5. Reale G., A History of Ancient Philosophy, vol. 1-2, (many releases).