Program Contact: Anat Biletzki 203-582-3930
This interdisciplinary program seeks to introduce students to the historical, philosophical and sociological issues raised by the dominant place that science has assumed in our world. Science is defined broadly to encompass both scientific theory and practical applications of scientific knowledge. To pursue a minor in History and Philosophy of Science therefore means to consider technology, the practice of medicine, the health sciences, and aspects of the human sciences in addition to the traditional physical, chemical and biological sciences. Students develop the skills to understand, assess and critique the place of, and changes in, science and technology and to evaluate the ways in which these changes impact society.
Students also explore and understand the pace of change in science and technology and develop critical thinking and writing skills applicable to a broad range of professional pursuits such as technical writing or science journalism. The program is designed to expose students to a wide range of courses offered by different schools throughout the university, while establishing a solid foundation in the humanistic tradition of the arts and sciences. The course of study is designed to build upon the knowledge and skills developed in the student’s major by providing a greater interdisciplinary scope and a consideration of philosophical, historical and ethical issues on topics relating to science and technology.
To complete a minor in History and Philosophy of Science, students are required to complete six courses (18 credits). All students take both The Rise of Modern Science (HS 230) and Philosophy of Science and Technology (PL 235). In addition, students take 12 credits from the list of approved courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIO 205 | Bioethics | 3 |
| BIO 383 | Evolution | 3 |
| BMS 117 | The Human Organism | 3 |
| BMS 278 | Research and Technology | 3 |
| BMS 474 | Power of Plagues | 3 |
| CSC 350 | Artificial Intelligence | 3 |
| HS 330 | History of Western Medicine | 3 |
| HS 394 | Doctors, Disease and Death in the Western World | 4 |
| HSC 315 | Bioethical Issues in the 21st Century | 3 |
| MSS 320 | Communication Technologies: Evolution and Impact | 3 |
| PL 222 | Bioethics | 3 |
| PL 320 | Thought and Work of Albert Schweitzer (SL: Service Learning) | 3 |
| SO 280 | Sociology of Health and Illness | 3 |
| SO 360 | Sociology of Mental Health | 3 |
In consultation with the program director, students design a course of study with a coherent focus related to their interests and major field. These courses of study will have a central theme or area of study that falls within the general scope of the program.