Course |
SCI 162 Cosmology |
|
Professor |
Peter Skiff |
|
CRN |
97154 |
|
Schedule |
Tu Th 1:00 -2:20 pm HEG 102 |
Cross-listed: Science,
Technology & Society
The course will be a descriptive review of the
astrophysical theories of the origin and development of the early universe. The
“standard model”, the so-called “big bang theory” will be examined in detail,
with attendant evidence and theories of particles, fields, energy and entropy,
and space-time geometry. Current models of supernovae, quasars, black and white
holes, dark matter, quantum foam, and recent alternative models of super
symmetry and superstrings will be reviewed. Various historical notions of time,
space, matter, and cause will frame the discussions. No prior experience in
collegiate science is required. This course can be taken for distribution
credit in science, but does not meet the requirement for computational or laboratory
experience.
Course |
SHP 222 History of Science before Newton |
|
Professor |
Peter Skiff |
|
CRN |
97155 |
|
Schedule |
Tu Th 2:30 -3:50 pm HEG 102 |
Cross-listed:
Science, Technology & Society
Related
interest: Classical Studies
An introduction to the history and philosophy of
science. T. S. Kuhn's model of historical progress will be used to examine
selected parts of discourses involving pre‑Socratic philosophy,
mythology, Copernican astronomy, Galileo's trial, and Newton's philosophy. A
critique of method will introduce modern historiographic and philosophic
controversy. Designed as a core course for studies in history, philosophy, and
sociology of science; no prior mathematical or technical expertise will be
presumed at this level. Readings include excerpts from the Enuma Elish, the
Milesians, Pythagoras, Heraclitus, Plato, Aristotle, Ptolemy, Copernicus,
Kepler, Galileo, and Newton. Secondary commentary by Nahm, Butterfield, Kuhn,
Munitz, and others.