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Bard College Catalogue 2009-2010
2009-2010
Additional Courses in the Sciences
Courses listed under this heading are introductory courses in branches of science that do not fit into the five divisional programs (biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics), or that approach the study of science from historical or philosophical points of view.
Astronomy
Science 161
An introduction to astronomy and astrophysics that covers the current status of knowledge and theories of the solar system, individual stars, galaxies, and the interstellar medium. Theories of quasars, pulsars, supernovas, X-ray stars, and black holes are discussed in terms of models of stellar, galactic, and cosmic evolution.
Cosmology
Science 162
A descriptive review of the astrophysical theories of the origin and development of the early universe. The Big Bang theory is examined in detail, with attendant evidence and theories of particles, fields, energy and entropy, and space-time geometry. Current models of supernovas, quasars, black and white holes, dark matter, quantum foam, and recent alternative models of supersymmetry and superstrings are reviewed.
Physical Science before Newton
Science History and Philosophy 222
T. S. Kuhn’s model of historical progress is 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 introduces modern historiographic and philosophic controversies.
Physical Science after Newton
Science History and Philosophy 223
cross-listed: sts, victorian studies
A survey of major agendas of physical science since 1750. Characteristic episodes include Lavoisier and the theory of elements; Maxwell and the mathematization of physics; arguments about light from Newton, Young, Michelson, and Einstein; 20th-century atomic theory; and the emergence of “big science.”
Einstein
Science History and Philosophy 225
This course examines Einstein’s life and work, the impact of his work on worldviews, and some of the many controversies involved therein. It makes use of biographical and popular descriptions of the relativity theories.
Science and Pseudoscience
Science History and Philosophy 227
cross-listed: sts
The search for a demarcation between “science” and “pseudoscience” has generated many productive developments in the academic philosophy of science. This course examines a number of well-studied 20th-century incidences of pseudoscience in physical science, including Blondlot’s N-rays, Langmuir’s criteria, Ehrenhaft’s electrons, polywater, cold fusion, and the fifth force. No background in science or mathematics is required.
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