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Back to Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences

Learner Reviews & Feedback for Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences by The University of Edinburgh

4.7
stars
956 ratings

About the Course

What is the origin of our universe? What are dark matter and dark energy? This is the first part of the course 'Philosophy and the Sciences', dedicated to Philosophy of the Physical Sciences. Scientific research across the physical sciences has raised pressing questions for philosophers. The goal of this course is to introduce you to some of the main areas and topics at the key juncture between philosophy and the physical sciences. Each week we will introduce you to some of these important questions at the forefront of scientific research. We will explain the science behind each topic in a simple, non-technical way, while also addressing the philosophical and conceptual questions arising from it. We’ll consider questions about the origin and evolution of our universe, the nature of dark energy and dark matter and the role of anthropic reasoning in the explanation of our universe. Learning Objectives Gain a fairly well-rounded view on selected areas and topics at the intersection of philosophy and the sciences Understand some key questions, and conceptual problems arising in the natural sciences. Develop critical skills to evaluate and assess these problems. Suggested Reading To accompany 'Philosophy and the Sciences', we are pleased to announce a tie-in book from Routledge entitled 'Philosophy and the Sciences for Everyone'. This course companion to the 'Philosophy and the Sciences' course was written by the Edinburgh Philosophy and the Sciences team expressly with the needs of MOOC students in mind. 'Philosophy and the Sciences for Everyone' contains clear and user-friendly chapters, chapter summaries, glossary, study questions, suggestions for further reading and guides to online resources. Please note, this companion book is optional - all the resources needed to complete the course are available freely and listed on the course site. Learners can apply for Financial Aid directly with Coursera to assist with the cost of accessing the full course and gaining a certificate for successfully completing the course....

Top reviews

VP

May 29, 2020

The course was fascinating and inspirational. It revealed to me the connection between science and philosophy in the context of cutting edge knowledge.

FA

Aug 31, 2017

A remarkable experience. Great lectures, beautiful surroundings, well chosen readings. I guess I will sign up for the second part of it.

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101 - 125 of 223 Reviews for Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences

By Attense C

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Mar 4, 2021

Very interesting, and for some reason my recall sticks even months after taking it.

By Francisco J d O

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Jun 15, 2019

eternal apprentice One more course. More information. I love the COURSERA platform.

By Diego M

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Nov 19, 2022

Very interesting. It gives you a good perspective on where to continue searching.

By Alex R

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Mar 1, 2021

I found this course rather interesting, although at times it is a bit confusing.

By D.Scott V

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Sep 3, 2017

Very informative and enjoyable. Thanks to all who taught and participated.

By raah

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Jul 28, 2023

Fascinating example of cosmology used to explain philosophical concepts.

By Theo P

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May 5, 2022

v informative and interesting . very well presented by all.

thank you

By Christian

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Feb 26, 2025

Excelente introducción, muchas gracias por el conocimiento brindado.

By steve_mcelroy@btinternet.com

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Sep 11, 2023

I really enjoyed this. Very stimulating. Thanks to all at Edinburgh.

By Saleem R

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Aug 2, 2017

Really made me think! It pushed me beyond my conceptual threshold.

By Antonio A

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Aug 19, 2021

Good staff and very good material to continue studying the cosmos

By Arantza P

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Jul 11, 2020

Helps you expand your way of seeing the universe and life itself

By Nilgen V

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Dec 13, 2020

Fantastic! Well explained both in theory and mathematically.

By Muskan A

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Sep 17, 2020

Get the knowledge on my own field and wonderful explanation.

By Proinsias R

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Jan 8, 2020

Really enjoyed this opportunity to learn. Highly recommend!

By Jekaterina T

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Mar 30, 2017

Excellent course for a beginner or just science enthusiast!

By Anzhelika K

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May 1, 2022

A very interesting and dynamic introduction to cosmology.

By THAER A

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Jun 1, 2020

An amazing journey I have learned a lot from this course!

By Hylke

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May 24, 2018

Very interesting, easy to follow and challenging content.

By Daniel C

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Dec 29, 2020

Excellent course material at the right level of details.

By Viola B

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Feb 28, 2023

Excellent course for Cognitive Sciences specialization.

By Derek C

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Nov 15, 2020

An excellent course with clear, understandable lectures

By Rajesh K

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Jun 22, 2020

Some crucial topics have been explained extremely well.

By SWAPNIL D

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Jun 5, 2020

Excellent course for beginners in the field. Good work!

By Antonio F d A C

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Nov 8, 2020

Great good introduction to a very interesting subject.