Introduction on the course Philosophy of Science.

1. Philosophy of Science

2. What is truth? How do we search for the truth? Are we able to find the truth?

3. Objects of the course a basic understanding of the philosophy of science the background of scientific theory

4. Course structure The course consists of 17 units 3 parts: General philosophy of science Four main paradigms of social sciences Organizational sciences

5. Assignments and assessment Reading the assigned literature and participating in class 3 case studies (10% each) Discussion (10%) Take home exam including a case study (60%) You have to have at least a 5.5 on the take home exam in order to pass.

6. Four paradigms

8. Empiricism: a theory of knowledge which asserts that knowledge is gained through experience Interpretative theory: a theory of knowledge which aims at understanding rather than fact gathering Critical theory: theories aimed at both understanding (knowledge)and critiquing society Postmodernism: postmodern thinkers question the idea of a single truth