Princeton scholar to lecture on the philosophy of science
Feb. 12, 2003
KALAMAZOO -- A leading scholar in the philosophy of science will visit Western Michigan University to discuss the role that perspective plays in the scientific representation of nature.
Dr. Bas C. van Fraassen, professor of philosophy at Princeton University will present, "Representation and Perspective in Science," at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, in Rooms 157-158 of the Bernhard Center. His visit to the campus is part of the University's Visiting Scholars and Artists Program.
Van Fraassen is the author of five books, including "The Scientific Image," which is regarded as a classic in the philosophy of science.
"The book generated a vigorous debate, concerning the aim and structure of science, that has continued to this day," says Dr. Marc Alspector-Kelly, WMU assistant professor philosophy, who is coordinating the visit.
The Visiting Scholars and Artists Program at WMU was established in 1960 and has supported more than 500 visits by scholars and artists representing some 65 academic disciplines. The chairperson of the committee that oversees the program is Dr. Carol Bennett, instructor in the Department of Business Information Systems.
Media contact: Matt Gerard, 269 387-8400, matthew.gerard@wmich.edu