Module description
This module explores central issues in contemporary epistemology, focusing on the nature of learning, evidence, and confirmation. It provides a critical introduction to Bayesian approaches to these questions and examines their philosophical foundations and limitations. The module also considers connections between epistemology and cognitive science, as well as the role of evidence in legal reasoning. The module combines formal, conceptual, and applied approaches to epistemology.
Assessment details
When this module is taught in the Autumn term (Semester 1), there will be alternative assessment for Study Abroad students at King's for Semester 1 only.
FULL YEAR Study Abroad students:
Summative assessment: Brief, 800 words (30%); Unseen written exam, 2 hours (70%).
SEMESTER 1-ONLY Study Abroad students:
Summative assessment: Brief, 800 words (30%); Essay, 2500 words (70%) due in Assessment Period 1 (January).
Formative assessment: NONE
Educational aims & objectives
The aim of this module is to provide students with a critical understanding of key arguments and positions in contemporary epistemology through close reading and discussion of major texts in the field.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable, and practical skills appropriate to this level. In particular, they will be able to:
- Demonstrate sustained philosophical reflection on central epistemological issues;
- Show knowledge and understanding of major problems, theories, arguments, and texts in contemporary epistemology;
- Apply epistemological theories to everyday and institutional contexts;
- Summarise and critically evaluate complex philosophical arguments;
- Construct and defend arguments, while engaging critically with alternative positions;
- Develop and articulate independent philosophical views, and revise them in light of reasoned criticism.
Teaching pattern
One one-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks.
Suggested reading list
Lectures may draw on the following texts:
Chater, N. & Oaksford, M. (2008). The Probabilistic Mind: Prospects for Bayesian Cognitive Science
Earman, J. (1992). Bayes or Bust? A Critical Examination of Bayesian Confirmation Theory
Howson, C. & Urbach, P. (2006). Scientific Reasoning: The Bayesian Approach (3rd ed.)
Williamson, T. (2000). Knowledge and Its Limits