Key facts
UNE unit code: PHIL509
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
In recent decades, the interdisciplinary field of the philosophy of biology has flourished, as philosophers and biologists have explored the conceptual foundations of biological science, as well as its implications for humans and our place in the world.
This unit is an introduction to conceptual, methodological, metaphysical and epistemological problems in biology and evolutionary theory.
You will begin by examining the received Darwinian view of evolution and the history of life, then consider some of the implications of and challenges to aspects of that view, including debates around Intelligent Design, teleology, the units of selection, the metaphysics of species, punctuated equilibrium, evolution and progress, genetics and reductionism, and evolution and ethics.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced understanding of the received view of evolution and the history of life, and the important critiques of it;
- develop and defend sophisticated arguments in connection with the debates about central topics in the philosophy of biology; and
- apply expert research skills, expert judgement and initiative to write coherent, clear, critical essays, with a significant degree of originality and independence of thought.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay | Yes | 60% | All offerings | No. Words: 4500 |
| Take Home Exam | Yes | 40% | All offerings | No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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