Philosophy

lsc1120a  2026-2027  Louvain-la-Neuve

Philosophy
2.00 credits
30.0 h
Q1
> Schedule
Language
French
Main themes
The importance of scientific knowledge for the human condition, the cultural importance and governmental funding given to the pursuit of science, and the impact that science has had and continues to have on the shaping of our understanding of ourselves and the world, together imply that science has been a rich source of reflection not just for scientists, but for philosophers as well. This course will explore those philosophical aspects of scientific practice, with a particular emphasis on the ways that they affect science’s role in society and the perspective of a future scientist.
Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

1 With regard to the LO framework of the BIR1BA program, this course contributes to the development, the acquisition, and the evaluation of the following LOs:
  • LO 1.2: To know and understand the basic concepts as part of an introduction to philosophy and economics.
  • LO 1.6: Using several strands of knowledge (to articulate concepts from different fields) to understand a multidisciplinary problem.
  • LO 7: To act with concern for sustainable development challenges, be open to the world and adopt a humanistic outlook.
With regard to the LO framework of the VETE1BA program, this course contributes to the development, the acquisition, and the evaluation of the following LOs:
  • LO 2.3: Methodically search for valid and relevant scientific information, critically analyze it, and synthesize it.
  • LO 2.7: Establish vertical and horizontal links between different teachings and concepts in order to address animals and their (dys)functioning as a whole.
  • LO 7: Demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility toward society, duty, and professional integrity.
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
  • Interpret the different social and cultural issues raised by contemporary science;
  • Apply philosophical and ethical approaches to their own scientific reflection;
  • Understand and critique the process of the generation of scientific knowledge.
 
Content
This course will explore central themes in the philosophy and history of science, epistemology, and the ethics of science. The three central axes of the course will be the relation between science and our society (including ethical and political dimensions), the history of science, and the concept of science itself. Particular attention will be paid to the importance of scientific knowledge for responding to societal challenges, including the ecological transition.
Teaching methods
This will primarily be a traditional lecture course; I will present concepts, problems, and classic interpretive questions from the philosophy of science, applied as much as possible to your scientific degree program.
Evaluation methods
The evaluation will take the form of a written exam.
Online resources
All readings as well as the syllabus are available on the website of Pr. Pence: https://charlespence.net/fr/courses/lsc1120a/
Bibliography
(voir ressources en ligne ci-dessus)
(see online resources above)
Faculty or entity
> SC


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Bachelor in Chemistry
CHIM1BA
2
Additionnal module in Biology
APPBIOL
2
Interdisciplinary Advanced Master in Science and Management of the Environment and Sustainable Development
ENVI2MC
2
Bachelor in Mathematics
MATH1BA
2
Bachelor in Physics
PHYS1BA
2
Bachelor in Geography : General
GEOG1BA
2
Bachelor in Bioengineering
BIR1BA
2