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.