About MCPS

Read our latest newsletter: Winter 2024

The mission of MCPS is to promote excellence in research and training in philosophy of science, related empirical studies of science, and science itself. Its primary objectives are: (1) to maintain Minnesota’s preeminence in the philosophy of science and use this standing to lead philosophy of science in new directions, as well as have an impact on the direction of science itself by influencing scientists’ reflective understanding of scientific inquiry and knowledge; (2) to nurture a multiplicity of intellectual groups that transcend the boundaries between philosophy and the sciences, and to use these groups to advance research, graduate training, and undergraduate education at the University of Minnesota; and (3) to conduct local and international research projects, the most important results of which are published in journals and anthologies, including Minnesota Studies.

The Minnesota Center for Philosophy of Science advances research and graduate training in the philosophy of science and related studies of science and technology. We foster a local community of scholars (from a number of different disciplines throughout the University of Minnesota as well as area colleges and universities) through a variety of activities and special events.  

MCPS also brings together researchers from around the world through our conferences, workshops and visiting fellow program, and conducts collaborative research projects, the results of which are published in Minnesota Studies in the Philosophy of Science. 

Our governing board is composed of eight to twelve current faculty members of the University of Minnesota and are normally Resident Fellows. The Board normally meets once per year. Members of the Board are nominated by members of the Executive Committee or Governing Board and elected by the Governing Board for terms of up to five years. Terms are renewable.

For a historical overview of the nature and origins of our intellectual community, read "From Vienna to Minneapolis: The Ideal of Intellectual Community" and view an historical timeline of the center in PDF format. 

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Current issue: Winter 2024