Course Description
Introduction to the Social and Cultural History of Science. Study of the role and practice of science in ancient and modern societies, interaction with religion, politics, and culture, and social consequences of the development of scientific knowledge. Readings reflect the variety of methodological approaches pursued by historians of science.
Athena Title
COLL SCI & SOCIETY
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in HIST 7760
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
The main objectives of the course are to introduce students to the field of social and cultural studies of science through thoughtful reading and discussion of some classic studies in the field; to illustrate the variety of methodological approaches to the historical phenomenon of science; and to raise students' awareness of the social aspects of the pursuit of knowledge in different human cultures.
Topical Outline
1. Science in ancient societies: Greek polis and Roman empire 2. The transfer of knowledge between ancient cultures 3. Scientific revolution 4. Copernical astronomy and religion 5. Quest for certainty: Experimental and mathematical 6. Science and the Enlightenment 7. Professionalization, disciplines, and modern university 8. Darwinian evolution: cultural responses 9. Relativity and uncertainty: revolution on physics 10. Industrialization and technological change 11. Genetics and new biology 12. Eugenics and Social Darwinism 13. Soviet science 14. Nazi Racial hygiene 15. Atomic weapons and militarization of science