Award winning philosopher of science Bas van Fraassen is visiting Western University this week to deliver two public lectures presented by the Rotman Institute of Philosophy.
van Fraasen’s contributions to the philosphy of science include coining the term “constructive empiricism,” which advocates a skeptical approach to scientific theories that says accepting a theory does not mean accepting that it is true, but merely that it is factually adequate.
van Fraassen presents “The Self, From a Logical Point of View” on Thursday, April 3 at Conron Hall (Room 224), University College from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
For more information, please visit: https://www.rotman.uwo.ca/rotman-events/rotman-lecture-bas-van-fraassen-1-of-2/
The second lecture, “The Semantic Approach to Science, After 50 Years,” is scheduled for Friday, April 4 at The Chu International Centre (Room 2130), Western Student Services Building from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
For more information, please visit: https://www.rotman.uwo.ca/rotman-events/rotman-lecture-bas-van-fraassen-2-of-2/
In 2012, van Fraassen received the inaugural Hempel Award –a lifetime achievement award from the Philosophy of Science Association. The award, to be given every two years, is named after Carl Hempel, a major figure in the field of philosophy of science who died in 1997.
His books include “The Scientific Image,” “Laws and Symmetry,” “The Empirical Stance” and “Scientific Representation.” He is a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has served as president of the Philosophy of Science Association. van Fraassen joined San Francisco State University in 2008 after retiring from Princeton University, where he holds the title of professor emeritus. He has also taught at Yale University, University of Toronto and University of Southern California.
MEDIA CONTACT: Jeff Renaud, Senior Media Relations Officer, 519-661-2111, ext. 85165, jrenaud9@uwo.ca, @jeffrenaud
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