Introduction to contemporary philosophy

Teacher(s)

Pence Charles; Verdée Peter;

Language

French

Content

A philosophical reflection on inference

This course will present some themes in contemporary philosophy related to the concept of inference. In science, in mathematics, as well as in daily life, we begin from the facts and data that we know in order to draw further consequences. Every even number is divisible by two, and eight is even, so eight is divisible by two. The sun has risen every morning, so it will do so tomorrow morning, too. The grass in front of the house is wet, but it hasn't rained, so my neighbor must have watered it.
We will explore all these forms of inference. When are they legitimate? How can we justify them? How are they used in different areas of science and mathematics? Can we analyze them formally, and if so, in what conditions? In exploring these questions, we will describe the role played by inference in the generation of knowledge.

Teaching methods

Lectures given by the two professors, with a significant role for discussions with and between the students.

Evaluation methods

In the June session and the August session: a group written work (50%) and a defense of this work at the oral exam (50%).

Online resources

All readings and slides available on the Moodle site for the course.

Faculty or entity

SC