In recent years, a number of philosophers have argued that it is not enough to speculate and introspect from the armchair―philosophers must subject their claims to scientific scrutiny, looking at evidence and in some cases conducting new empirical research. This course is an introduction to the new experimental philosophy (“X-Phi”). The course serves two purposes. First, it examines the theory behind x-phi, including its underlying motivations and the objections that have been leveled against it. Second, it offers practical guidelines for those interested in doing experimental philosophy, detailing how to design, implement, and analyze empirical studies. Course requirements include brief oral presentations and short written work.
Teacher: Erik Angner
Literature:
- Justin Sytsma & Jonathan Livengood: The Theory and Practice of Experimental Philosophy
Course dates: August 31 - October 19
Time and location: Thursdays 10-12 in D734
