HPS/H 176: Useful Knowledge

Professor: Rose-Mary Sargent
Email: rsargent@hss.caltech.edu
Office: 119 Dabney Hall

Fall 2006

Class meets:
Tuesday 2:30-3:45 25 Baxter
Thursday 2:30-3:45 25 Baxter

Course Description:

During the seventeenth century, the traditional distinction between episteme and techne was called into question particularly by those who sought to institute an experimental program in natural philosophy. In this course we will first examine the original arguments in favor of useful knowledge in all areas of study including the civic, humanistic, and religious influences on the idea that knowledge must be pursued "for the common good." We will then look at the gradual transformations that took place in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries that culminated in the rise of positivism and utilitarianism. The course will conclude with a critical examination of the ways in which the nineteenth-century conception of utility has remained influential throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

Focus will be primarily on the works of scientists, philosophers of science, and natural philosophers in the Anglo-American tradition. Current news articles will be used along with the historical readings to help students learn how to think, discuss, and write critically about the ways in which political, economic, and social interests influence concepts of usefulness.

Required Texts:

Francis Bacon, Selected Philosophical Works, Hackett Publishing, 1999.
David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, Hackett Publishing, 1993.
Auguste Comte, Introduction to Positive Philosophy, Hackett Publishing, 1988.
John Stuart Mill, Utilitarianism, Hackett Publishing, 1979.
John Dewey, Political Writings, Hackett Publishing, 1993.

Other readings will include selections from: Robert Boyle, Humphry Davy, William Whewell, Charles Sanders Peirce, William James, Pierre Duhem, John Rawls, Helen Longino, Alvin Goodman, Stephen Toulmin, and Philip Kitcher.

Requirements

Active Participation and Frequent Class Presentations - 30%
Two Analysis Papers - 20% each
Critical Evaluation Paper or Take-home Final Exam - 30%

Syllabus:

Will be distributed to students at the beginning of class.

Readings:

Will be distributed to students at the beginning of class.