Philosophy of Science
A.Y. 2026/2027
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.
Lesson period: Third trimester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Third trimester
Course syllabus
Traditional view of science
Hypothesis and confirmation
Observation and theory
Uncertainty and decisions
Values in science
Rational choice theory
Experiments
Models
Non-Experimental methods
Ethics and Economics
Hypothesis and confirmation
Observation and theory
Uncertainty and decisions
Values in science
Rational choice theory
Experiments
Models
Non-Experimental methods
Ethics and Economics
Prerequisites for admission
No preliminary competences are required.
Teaching methods
Lectures and seminars
Teaching Resources
Potochnik, A. Colombo, M. & Wright, C. (2019) Recipes for Science: An Introduction to Scientific Methods and Reasoning. Routledge.
Reiss, J. (2013) Philosophy of Economics: A Contemporary Introduction
Reiss, J. (2013) Philosophy of Economics: A Contemporary Introduction
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam takes place in written form and in person at the end of the course, and is structured in three parts, for a total of 32 points:
- Multiple choice questions (10 points): questions assessing knowledge of the core content of the course.
- Mini essay (14 points): a question requiring an extended, argued discussion of a topic from the syllabus. Full marks require correctly defining the relevant concepts, applying them appropriately, arguing a clear position while considering possible objections, and demonstrating a critical and original engagement with the course material.
- Definitions (2 questions, 4 points each): require defining a concept and explaining its role within the discipline. Full marks require providing correct and precise definitions, together with an understanding of the concepts' role in the specific philosophical debate.
The maximum grade is 30 with distinction (30 e lode), awarded when the total score exceeds 30.
At the instructor's discretion, an additional oral exam may be required if doubts arise regarding the student's performance or the correct administration of the written test.
Exam results will be communicated through the University's online platform.
- Multiple choice questions (10 points): questions assessing knowledge of the core content of the course.
- Mini essay (14 points): a question requiring an extended, argued discussion of a topic from the syllabus. Full marks require correctly defining the relevant concepts, applying them appropriately, arguing a clear position while considering possible objections, and demonstrating a critical and original engagement with the course material.
- Definitions (2 questions, 4 points each): require defining a concept and explaining its role within the discipline. Full marks require providing correct and precise definitions, together with an understanding of the concepts' role in the specific philosophical debate.
The maximum grade is 30 with distinction (30 e lode), awarded when the total score exceeds 30.
At the instructor's discretion, an additional oral exam may be required if doubts arise regarding the student's performance or the correct administration of the written test.
Exam results will be communicated through the University's online platform.
PHIL-02/A - Logic and Philosophy of Science - University credits: 6
Lessons: 40 hours
Professor:
Marchionni Caterina
Professor(s)
Reception:
Mondays 14.30-15.30 or by appointment
Office (last floor, Via Festa del Perdono 7), or online