HSTCMP 311 A: Science in Civilization: Antiquity to 1600

Autumn 2024
Meeting:
MTWTh 8:30am - 9:20am / MGH 231
SLN:
16594
Section Type:
Lecture
Instructor:
WRITING CREDIT OPTIONAL
Syllabus Description (from Canvas):

This course is required for those minoring in History of Science, and for those who plan to major in History and Philosophy of Science.  It is open to all students with no prerequisites.  No particular background in science is expected. 

This survey course provides an introduction to the basic narrative and fundamental problems of the history of science from prehistory to the early modern period.  Major areas of emphasis are the ancient and classical Mediterranean (Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece broadly defined, Hellenistic, and Roman contexts), Islam from the 8th to the 12th centuries, and the European Middle Ages.  Readings in primary sources (in translation) and secondary sources.  

This is an in-person lecture course with class discussions of readings and assignments throughout the term.  

Course requirements include two short midterm exams, final exam, and short writing assignments. 

This is a W-optional course.  Appropriate assignments will be available for students hoping to satisfy the University's writing requirement. 

Catalog Description:
From pre-classical antiquity to the end of the Middle Ages, stressing the growth of scientific ideas, the cultural context in which they take shape, and their relationship to other movements of thought in the history of civilization.
GE Requirements Met:
Social Sciences (SSc)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
November 23, 2024 - 2:03 am