History 697P:
History of Popular Science
Spring 2008, Monday 2:30 - 5:00 pm
Synopsis:
This class will investigate familiar issues like environmental activism, along with less familiar ones like mesmerism and "grassroots geology," through a historical study of popular science. How have scientists and others sought to communicate scientific ideas to the public, and how have these ideas shaped history? How have non-scientists participated in the production of knowledge, and how has such participation challenged scientists' privileged positions as conveyors of scientific truth? In addition to examining primary source documents and watching films, we will read historical scholarship on a range of times and places including Victorian England, the Soviet Union, communist China, post-War Japan, and contemporary U.S. and U.K. Requirements will include regular short written assignments and one in-depth project tailored to students' individual interests and goals.
Syllabus: Not available
Course Website: Not available
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