Learning outcome

After completing the course, the students should have the following qualification regarding knowledge, skills, and general competence:

• Have knowledge about scientific research methods and processes
• Have knowledge about what philosophy of science is and the questions it attempts to answer
• Have knowledge about various perceptions and concepts of nature and different positions within environmental philosophy
• Be able to describe different challenges related to science
• Be able to formulate good research questions and write academic texts
• Be able to present own academic work
• Be able to discuss different perceptions of nature and the value of nature within biological, cultural and historical contexts
• Be able to discuss environmental ethics based on knowledge of different positions in environmental philosophy

Course Description

Basic topics:

- History: how the concept of nature have changed throughout history

· Environmental philosophy and ethics: animal rights, the environment as a legal entity, ecophilosophy, deep ecology and sustainable development

· Outdoor life and nature experiences: social-psychological and environmental-psychological perspectives, intrinsic value and cultural heritage

Teaching and Learning Methods

• Lectures
• Mandatory student presentations in groups
• Individual term paper and oral presentation of the paper

Assessment Methods

Grades will be given for two examinations: a multiple choice exam will count for 30% of the grade and the term paper will count for 70% of the final grade. Group presentation and final presentation of the term paper is not graded, but is mandatory and needs to be completed before final grade is given.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean