Selected Topics in the Philosophy of Science (MP3 download)

By Harry Binswanger Speaking as both professional philosopher and amateur scientist, Dr. Binswanger presents original and challenging solutions to a number of problems that have fascinated, tantalized and perplexed students of philosophy and science. 1. Mathematics Geometry: Euclidean vs. non-Euclidean geometry; reconceiving the hierarchical order of the basic concepts of geometry; a proper definition of “straight line”; a proper definition of “parallel lines” and its role. Numbers: reducing the concept of “number” to perceptual reality—or, “where is fiveness?”; negative numbers, irrational numbers and imaginary numbers; infinity and “ultrafinitism.” 2. Physics and Biology Physics: the finite universe; “place” vs. “space” in conceptualizing the universe; why there can be no real voids. Biology: mechanism vs. vitalism; the theory of natural selection and its epistemological status; the goal-directedness of living action. (MP3 download; 2 hrs., 55 min., with Q & A, 127.56 MB)