NSC 115 Science in Perspective

A study of natural science in its historical and philosophical context, paying particular attention to the interplay between the practice of science, and religious and philosophical belief. The course will present a foundation for understanding science from a Christian perspective, and from this vantage point will trace the various philosophical traditions surrounding the growth of science from the Early Modern period to the present. A variety of topics in the physical and biological sciences will be used to illustrate the development of science, and in each case students will focus beyond the science itself to related philosophical and theological considerations. Topics to be discussed: forces and motion, gravity, light, special relativity, quantum theory and atomic structure, properties and molecules of living systems, levels of biological organization, molecular and cellular biology, macro/microevolution and intelligent design theory. Laboratory exercises for this course will attempt to illustrate the human aspects of scientific investigation and provide a foundation for judging the strength of scientific claims. Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing or higher; MAT 122 or above, or math placement level 3 or above. Exceptions can be made with permission of the instructor. Laboratory fee: $30. 4 hour(s). LAB.