Workshop and reading group on philosophy of natural historical sciences

The chair of philosophy of science of the University of Tartu organises the workshop „Science & the Deep Past“ on March 18-21, 2019, taught by Adrian Currie from the University of Exeter. The workshop will take place at the department of philosophy (Jakobi 2) and the University of Tartu Museum of Natural History (Vanemuise 46) and includes seminars and practical work as well as public lectures. Students can earn 3 ECTS for participation, see also course description in SIS.

The workshop is based on Adrian Currie’s book Rock, Bone and Ruin: an optimist’s guide to the historical sciences, that the participants must read through before the workshop. Also for this, students can earn 3 ECTS by participating in the corresponding reading group (FLFI.03.094), from 3 December 2018 until 28 January 2019. See SIS for more information about the reading group. READING GROUP IS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION IN SIS!

The intensive course focuses on the methodology of natural historical sciences, such as palaeontology, archaeology, geology. Their capability to provide reliable knowledge despite the hindrances characteristic to the object of study is discussed. The central questions are: What explains the success of these sciences in the face of such challenges? Is there anything distinctive about historical sciences compared to other sciences? What do such sciences teach us about the nature of history? Are there lessons to be drawn about knowledge generally from our knowledge of the past?

The seminar course and workshop are both held in English.

See more about the workshop.

Additional information:
Research Fellow in Philosophy of Science Ave Mets, ave.mets@ut.ee

The course is supported by the University of Tartu ASTRA Project PER ASPERA, financed by the European Regional Development Fund.