New Master's Degree in the "History and Philosophy of Knowledge"

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Are you interested in the larger theoretical and historical contexts of scientific and technological developments? Do you want to better understand how knowledge, technology and science affect our lives? Would you like to design exhibitions in an art or natural history museum? Do you prefer books and writing to working in a lab, even though you are comfortable in conducting experiments? Have you thought about working in politics, for the science page of a newspaper or a science organisation? Equipping yourself for today’s society and the realities of the labour market require knowledge of many disciplines and a versatile set of skills. The interdisciplinary orientation of the new Master’s Course in the History and Philosophy of Knowledge fills these needs.

Beginning in autumn 2008, this two-year, specialised master’s course at ETH Zurich offers the possibility to obtain a special qualification that will enable you to better understand the context, practice, methods and consequences of scientific knowledge and how to make use of these developments responsibly. Experts in the history of technology and science, as well as philosophy, culture and literature provide the background and analytical skills that allow students the opportunity to creatively and independently grapple with current forms of knowledge in a historical and systematic perspective. The course offers natural and engineering scientists the chance to reflect critically on the knowledge gained in their first degree through the methods of history, philosophy and social theory. Students of the humanities and social studies will gain insights in the natural and engineering sciences through a focus on history and philosophy of science. Exceptional students will have the opportunity to study for a PhD.

Today, individual and collective knowledge are a major part of our social existence. Natural science and technology in particular shape people’s lives in many ways. At the same time, this knowledge is often difficult for laypeople to access. There is a demand for professionals who are familiar with the political, economic, social, ethical, and aesthetic conditions and consequences of the production and dissemination of knowledge. There is also a need for scientifically trained strategists who are capable of analysing the complex interactions among various bodies of knowledge. Finally, we need experts who can convey knowledge intelligibly. The content and program of the Master’s Course in the History and Philosophy of Knowledge is intended to develop such skills.