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Hello, The following event may be of interest to you: Why are some kinds historical and others not? Monday, October 28, 2019 This lecture explores why scientists sometimes classify entities in terms of their histories, and other times based exclusively on their non-historical or ‘synchronic’ properties. After reviewing examples of these two approaches, I formulate a principle designed to both describe and explain this aspect of our scientific classificatory practice. According to this proposal, a domain is apt for historical classifications just when the probability of the independent emergence of similar entities (PIES) in that domain is very low. In addition to rationalizing this principle and showing its ability to correctly account for classification practices across the natural and social sciences, I consider whether the kinds so circumscribed will be objective or real. Time: 4:45 pm – 6:30 pm EDT/GMT-4 Location: Olin Humanities, Room 102 Sponsor: Philosophy Program Contact: Jay Elliott. E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 845-758-7280 If you would like to see more events please visit the following URL: http://www.bard.edu/academics/programs/physics/events/