Carolina Science Cafe: Philosophy of Science
July 7 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Three Insights from Philosophy of Science That Really Matter Right Now
Most of us have strong opinions about whether to “trust the science” and assume the reasons why science is worth trusting are obvious. But we rarely stop to ask whether what we assume about science is actually right, and how those assumptions are shaping the way we respond to some of today’s most contentious controversies about science—from vaccine skepticism to debates about biological categories to the rise of AI in research.
In this month’s Carolina Science Cafe, Dr. Katie Deaven unpacks some common assumptions about how scientific knowledge is built, where it can go wrong, and what follows for how we engage with these contemporary critiques of science. Drawing on work in the philosophy of science, we’ll see that these assumptions are oversimplified in ways that can actually get in the way of engaging effectively in these controversies. A little philosophy of science goes a long way, though, in helping us see exactly where they fall short and the more interesting and productive discussions lying in wait.
Designed for adults, Carolina Science Cafe is a free program that explores science topics making national and international headlines, offering the chance to meet the experts behind the work. This special program is hosted at Haw River Tap & Table in Carrboro on the first Tuesday of every month. Light appetizers are available for all attendees.
About the Speaker
Dr. Katie Deaven (she/her), Teaching Assistant Professor of Philosophy, UNC-Chapel Hill
Katie Deaven is a Teaching Assistant Professor in Philosophy at UNC-Chapel Hill. She received her PhD from UW-Madison and specializes in the philosophy of science and philosophy of biology. She has taught courses in these areas as well as philosophy of technology and bioethics, and she loves designing events that bring philosophy to public audiences ranging from kindergarteners to adults.
Carolina Science Cafe is produced by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and sponsored by the UNC Chapter of Sigma Xi.
You do not need to register…just show up!