| Unit name | Probability and Rationality |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PHIL30078 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Jason Konek |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
PHIL20046 Realism and Normativity |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Philosophy |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
The concept of probability gives rise to deep and interesting philosophical questions. Moreover, many philosophers believe that probability theory can shed light on traditional problems in epistemology and metaphysics. This course provides a philosophical introduction to probability theory, and shows how probability can be used to help understand the nature of rational belief, rational action, and causation. Questions to be discussed from the following: Is probability an objective feature of reality, or is it a concept that we are forced to use because of our epistemic limitations? Is there more than one concept of probability? Can probability theory help solve the problem of induction? Does probability theory provide constraints on a rational person's degrees of belief? What is the relationship between probability and causality?
