Abstract:

The concept of natural law is central to modern science, yet when examined produces some philosophical difficulties. Do natural laws simply represent regularities in nature, as first Hume and then A.J. Ayer argue? Or are they metaphysically necessary features of our universe as Saul Kripke and Hilary Putnam hold in our text? Examine this issue and make a decision. Be sure to explain what you take to be the strengths and weaknesses of each approach.

Induction is the process by which one makes an inference of a generalised conclusion from particular instances. In other words, you arrive at a conclusion, or a theory, via small scale examples that confirm your theory. It has long been a philosophical scandal since discovered as a tool that might be used to aid philosophers in understanding the world.

Until Hume and Kant (who really brought the issue to the forefront), deduction was considered the primary mode for philosophical discourse. In fact, the holding of reason and logic to such high regards made deductive logic a de facto standard for philosophical arguments.

Using the articles by Michael Ruse and Larry Laudan contained in the “Science and Pseudoscience” section of the text, along with the NOVA documentary “God, Darwin and Dinosaurs.” examine the issues behind the so-called “Creation Science” controversy. Be sure to discuss the issue of the demarcation of science from nonscience, and consider to what extent a scientific theory (in this case the theory of evolution) needs to be confirmed before it can be taught as “fact.” Decide in the end whether the Creationists are correct in claiming that their views should be taught along side Darwin’s in basic science education.

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