In the context of this course, students will learn about the main stages in the history of the various branches of scientific knowledge, as well as the basic methodological tools and criteria by which a scientific truth is distinguished from a simple hypothesis, rumor or belief. Students will also learn about the mechanism of deductive reasoning and the criteria of its validity as well as the nature of empirical reasoning, which leads to the formulation of scientific theories. Particular emphasis will be given to the criterion of falsifiability, through which students will be able to distinguish scientific from pseudo-scientific theories.
Having understood the necessary condition of the logical consistency of philosophical and scientific theories, students become more mature in their way of thinking and in the process of presenting the studies and projects they will undertake, so that they do not deviate from sound reasoning, are convincing, accurate and acceptable to their specialized circle of collaborators as well as the wider public to whom they will be addressed. It is also ensured that someone who will be responsible for an information search unit (libraries, information centers, etc.) possesses the basic knowledge of the main stages of the history of science, as well as their main contributors.