Natural Science 0194 - Geological Controversies

Did a meteorite wipe out the dinosaurs? Will increases in "greenhouse" gases cause global warming? Do continents really drift across the face of Earth? How do scientists come up with these theories anyway? In this course, we will read primary literature about past and present geological controversies to learn how scientists develop, test, and modify scientific hypotheses. We will see how scientific ideas are shaped by academic debates at meetings and in scientific journals and the influence of social and political values of the times. We will also gain an appreciation of the analytical and creative skills exemplified by past and present successful scientists from different cultures. Students will research in depth two controversies of their choice and share written and oral presentations with the class.

Physical and Biological Sciences Quantitative Skills Writing and Research In this course students are generally expected to spend at least 6 to 8 hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.