FACULTY & STUDENT RESOURCES
Environmental Courses
History of Science
History of Science 100. Knowing the World: An Introduction to the History of Science - (New Course) 0905
S. Shapin, M.S. Elshakry, K. Park Fall Tu., Th., 11
Science is modernity's most authoritative way of knowing the world, both natural and social. We explore how science acquired such authority; how it was distinguished from such other ways of knowing as religion, art, and history; and what different forms scientific inquiry took over time. These questions are approached through a broad chronological survey of the history of science, including the physical, life, and human sciences, from the Middle Ages to the present. Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core area requirement for Historical Study A.
History of Science 131. History of Biology - (New Course) 3073
J. Browne Fall M., W., (F.), 11
An introduction to the ways in which animals and plants have been examined, discussed and used from around 1650 to 1950. The course covers specimen collecting, classification, exploration, botanic gardens, museums, zoos and pets, plants as commodities, the environmental sciences, and the rise of laboratory biology. Visits to the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments, the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and local laboratories will be arranged.
History of Science 134. Nature on Display: Conference Course - (New Course) 4987
J. Browne Spring Tu., 2-4
Explores the natural history tradition in Europe and the Americas, focusing on the cultural meanings of the practice of collecting specimens, exploration, museums displays and working the field and research stations from the 18th to 20th century. Enrollment: Limited to 15.
History of Science 192. Environmental Politics - (New Course) 9243
S. Jasanoff (Kennedy School) Fall M., W., F., 10
An introduction to the history, organization, goals, and ideals of environmental protection in America. Examines the shift in emphasis from nature protection to pollution control to sustainability over the 20th-century and develops critical tools to analyze changing conceptions of nature and the role of science in environmental policy formulation. Of central interest is the relationship between knowledge, uncertainty, and political or legal action. Theoretical approaches are combined with case studies of major episodes and controversies in environmental protection. Note: Offered jointly with Environmental Science and Public Policy 78. May not be taken for credit by students who have already taken ESPP 78.
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