Theory of Science for the Human Sciences

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• systematically explain concepts, methods and theories from within the general theory of science as well as the theory of science from the human sciences,
• discuss fundamental issues from the field of human sciences and reflect upon the place the human sciences have among other sciences.

Furthermore, upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• critically evaluate theoretical positions and empirical results in field of the human sciences,
• reflect upon and argue for research findings in the human sciences.

Furthermore, upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• make appropriate assessments relating to research ethics with regard to research questions within the human sciences.

The course covers key concepts, methods, theories and problems within the theory of science in general and the human sciences in particular.
Issues covered include the origin of meaning, the justification of interpretations, knowledge of other minds, the redundancy or impossibility of intercultural understanding, the fairness in individual and cultural differences, the implications of the contignency of human institutions, the question of whether truth is relative or absolute, the ethical norms for research, and the difference between the natural sciences and the human sciences.

Assessment is based on active participation in seminars, written assignments and a minor written essay.

The course consists of lectures and mandatory seminars. The language of instruction is English.

The Swedish grades A–F.