Physicists in the Nuclear Age

PHYS P20/3.0

Digital illustration of an atom in blue and grey.

Overview

The general aim of the course is to give you an appreciation for the adventure of science, from Newton to the 21st century. Starting from an enterprise undertaken by a few isolated geniuses at the beginning of the 20th century, it is now the most important industry of research and discovery.

The course will focus on the important personalities behind this scientific adventure as they go beyond the confines of the laboratory and influence the political, military, social, and economic transformations of our society.

This adventure is not without personal intrigues, often reaching huge political and social dimensions and more often than not, guided by military objectives. How scientists have remained faithful to the level of integrity necessary for honest appraisal of their work will be part of the discussion.

Learning Outcomes

Topics in this course include

  • The Myths of Science: Scientists - technologists or geniuses?
  • The Art of Science: Painters before Scientists
  • Science and Reason
  • What is the relation betwen science and reason: Or more precisely, how to construct scientific reasoning as opposed to pure logical reasoning.
  • Science and Society
  • Science and its Environment
  • Science and the Military
  • Science and Evolution
  • Is God in the Laboratory?
  • The End of Science