This course explores the philosophy of science with a focus on evolutionary biology. Students will learn about the evidence for evolution including homology, analogy, vestigial traits, geological data, fossils, and modern geographic distribution of species. They will also study concepts such as species definitions, speciation processes, the origin of life on Earth, the history of life, and factors influencing life expectancy. The course covers topics like Sewell Wright's Fitness Landscape Metaphor, semelparity vs iteroparity, dominant vs advantageous traits, and mutation dynamics. The teaching method includes lectures, discussions, and practical examples. This course is designed for individuals interested in evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, or related fields.
Overview
Syllabus
Philosophy of science (with special attention to evolutionary biology).
Why we study evolution.
Evidence for evolution: homology and analogy..
Evidence for evolution: Vestigial traits.
Evidence for evolution: geological data and fossils.
Evidence for evolution: modern geographic distribution of species.
Evidence for evolution: hybridization and weak species barriers.
Sewell Wright's Fitness Landscape Metaphor Explained.
Species Definitions | What is a Species?.
Speciation Processes | How do new species arise?.
The origin of life on Earth | EvolutionExamples.
The history of life on Earth | EvolutionExamples.
Why do we die? | EvolutionExamples.
Semelparity vs Iteroparity | EvolutionExamples.
The difference between dominant and advantageous | EvolutionExamples.
Mutation, polymorphism, and substitution | EvolutionExamples.
Calculating allele, genotype, and phenotype frequencies | EvolutionExamples.
Taught by
pleiotropy
