Philosophy of Science

A.Y. 2024/2025
6
Max ECTS
40
Overall hours
SSD
M-FIL/02
Language
English
Learning objectives
The course aims at providing students with the fundamental methodological principles that guide scientific research in economics, as well as the critical tools to identify potential flaws in the use or theories or data. In particular, the course illustrates the philosophical foundation to frame the use of theoretical models as well as to conduct empirical research. It also aims at clarifying the differences between research in economics and in other natural and social sciences.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the course the student will be able to understand the functions of theoretical speculation and empirical observation in economic research; to understand and evaluate the virtues and limitations of idealized models; to understand and evaluate the how different types of empirical evidence differ in terms of their internal consistency and external validity towards identifying causality; to appreciate the essential characteristics of a good experimental design; to distinguish between inductive and deductive inferences, statistical and causal inferences, and to understand the difference between different types of errors in the interpretation of data.
Single course

This course can be attended as a single course.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Lesson period
Second trimester
M-FIL/02 - LOGIC AND PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE - University credits: 6
Lessons: 40 hours