Module manager: Dr Ellen Clarke
Email: E.Clarke@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
How does science work? We shall try to answer this question by looking at some problems for scientific enquiry: What is the relationship between theories and data? What roles do models play in science? Do theories tell us how the world really is? What lessons should be drawn from the history of science? To what extent is science biased by gender, race or politics? Drawing on accessible examples from a variety of different scientific fields we shall try to come up with a clear picture of how science works.
This module will teach you how to describe and critically assess a range of central issues in philosophy of science.
The objective will be fulfilled by:
- Lectures where you are introduced to core concepts, readings and arguments.
- Seminar preparation and participation where you read texts critically, analyse the arguments, discuss the material with your peers, and are encouraged to develop your own point of view.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1) Describe central views in the philosophy of science and objections to those views
2) Provide responses that engage the objections
3) Construct a well-structured simple argument for your own view
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
4) Communicate ideas and understanding clearly and concisely, using appropriate academic language (Academic and Work Ready Skill)
5) Evaluate different arguments and perspectives, using supporting evidence to form opinions and arguments (Academic skill)
6) Identify ethical questions and use ethical frameworks when analysing issues arising in real-world contexts (Work Ready, Enterprise and Sustainability skill)
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Tutorial | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Private study hours | 84 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 16 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Students will have the opportunity to submit either an essay plan or an objection and reply which will receive written feedback.
Students should read and reflect on (i) the feedback they received in previous summative assessments, (ii) the PRHS marking criteria, and (iii) the specific guidance provided on the summative assessment in this module, and identify for themselves the type of formative feedback that will be most beneficial to them.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | Essay | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Resit will be by the same methodology as the first attempt. Students will select a different essay question from the list provided.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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