During this year, we will
touch upon a number of emerging areas of modern science (e.g. modern materials,
biochemistry, environmental science, geochemistry, and nuclear
chemistry). Our need to focus on specific topics,
however, somewhat limits the breadth of our perspective.
Science is not a set of separate disciplines,
but rather an interconnected web of ideas and principles which continue to
expand as new discoveries are made. Modern emerging fields of science are
interdisciplinary areas that require understanding a broad range of physical
principles that govern the universe. Society’s increased reliance on
modern technology also makes it important for educated citizens to understand
science in order to make informed decisions.
To provide the opportunity for you to examine
a broader view of areas that are covered in our text, you are asked to read one
book from the assigned reading list. These books describe some of the
most important ideas in science. They are not textbooks, but rather pieces
tailored for educated citizens who wish to further their understanding of science
through a self-directed process. It is my fervent hope that you enjoy
your selections; if past experience is any indication, I believe that you
will. I also hope this will spark a life-long personal interest in
reading (and learning) about science.
Taking the time to read well (what is worth
reading well) involves asking basic questions in a specific order (I am taking
this from the introduction to the Gateway to the Great Books). There are
four basic questions which the reader should ask:
1. What is the author's main point?
2. How does the author express this
central theme?
3. Is what
being said true? Do you agree? If not, what specific reasons do you have?
4. What meaning does this reading
have? How has it shaped your opinions or attitudes?
Specific Instructions: For each
assignment, you are to read one selection of your choice from the list.
Then prepare a 2-3 page typed report that summarizes what you have read using
the four questions cited above. The due date for this is noted in the syllabus.
Enjoy!!