HSTCMP 312: Science in Civilizations -- Modern Science (1600 - 1950)
This course is required for majors in History and Philosophy of Science, and for minors in History of Science (within the history department). Open to all; no prerequisites. This is a W course.
This survey course looks at a series of case studies, in a variety of sciences and contexts (including France, Britain, Germany, Russia, Scandinavia, India and the United States). The goal is to provide a working knowledge of the history of science, and of major problems confronting historians pursuing it. We begin with the Scientific Revolution, not as a well-defined event, but as a descriptor created by historians after World War II. Case studies will come from astronomy, physics, chemistry, the life and earth sciences.
The history of science since 1600 is particularly significant because it is taken as a model for certain, reliable knowledge that is objective and apolitical. We will explore these claims as examined by historians and philosophers.
Course requirements include two midterm examinations, two short essays, and a final examination.