HISTORY 4810
Scientific
Controversies
Spring 2007
(Dr. George Webb)
“Scientific Controversies” will examine several examples of scientific concepts and their impacts that have had significant broader implications. These controversies will, for the purposes of this course, be separated into “internal” and “external” controversies. The following topics are likely to be included in the syllabus for History 4810:
The concept of “internal” controversies will be examined through the lens of Thomas Kuhn’s classic work, The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, which will be one of the assigned texts for the course. This work will be discussed in depth in at least one class period.
The Astronomical Revolution (Copernicus, Tycho, Kepler, Galileo)
The Initial Scientific Response to
A crisis in physics and early Quantum Theory
Galileo and the Church
The Scopes Trial
Living with the Bomb
(Required texts will be determined at a later date.)
Course Requirements: Each student will prepare four 1000-1500 word essays during the semester, each of which will determine 25% of the course grade. Students must choose two topics from each of the two categories of controversies above, examining specific aspects of the controversy under analysis. Details of these assignments will be included on the course syllabus.