Numbering Code	U-LET01 35131 LJ34	Year/Term	2022 ・ Intensive, Second semester
Number of Credits	2	Course Type	special lecture
Target Year		Target Student
Language	Japanese	Day/Period	Intensive
Instructor name	CHIBA KIYOSHI (Part-time Lecturer)
Outline and Purpose of the Course	This class aims to analyze the theoretical structure of evolutionary theory from a perspective of philosophy of science. After reviewing major contentions in the philosophy of biology, we use the causal graph theory to formalize the mathematical and causal structure of evolutionary theory.
Course Goals	After this class, students will be able to understand conceptual issues on evolutionary biology and critically read & examine the relevant literature. They also learn an application of mathematical techniques such as probability theory and/or the causal graph theory to philosophical problems.
Schedule and Contents	The class has four major parts, each of which takes 3 to 4 weeks. We first learn the basics of population genetics, the theoretical core of modern evolutionary theory. Next, we review philosophical puzzles or challenges in evolutionary theory that have motivated discussions in the philosophy of biology in the past century. The third part introduces the “received view” of the philosophical community developed after the 80’s in response to these puzzles or challenges. The “received view,” however, is far from complete. The last part will critically examine the received view from the perspective of the causal graph theory. This will shed new light on the old problems, and also reveals the philosophical assumptions implicit in todays’ discussion in the philosophy of biology. 1. Mathematical basis of evolutionary theory 2. Philosophical problems on evolution 3. The received view in the philosophy of biology 4. A critical examination of the received view
Evaluation Methods and Policy	Evaluation is based on class participation (20%), quizzes (20%), and the final report (60%).
Course Requirements	None
Study outside of Class (preparation and review)	We adopt a semi-seminar style, where participants are required to take a look at the assigned text each week. Preparation is necessary to understand advanced topics.