Natural Science History

In this course we present the evolution of natural sciences (with emphasis on physics) from the forsth mathematical notions and the Babylonian astronomy to the current era. In parallel, we present the evolution in the philosophy of science.

Objectives

Understanding the succession of scientific discoveries. Connecting important events in the history of science and epistemology with its era.

Prerequisites

No prior knowledge is required.

Syllabus

• 1. Prehistory • 2. Ancient East • 3. Ancient Greek Philosophers • 4. Aristotle • 5. Sciences in the Hellenistic World • 6. Roman World, Arab Scientists and the Era of Translation • 7. Medieval University • 8. The Scientific Revolution • 9. Epistemology from 1500 to 1800 • 10. The Scientific Revolution in Chemistry • 11. The Birth of Biology • 12. Electromagnetism and Field Theory • 13. Epistemology from 1800 to 1950 • 14. The Theory of Relativity • 15. Quantum Physics • 16. Mathematical Reasoning • 17. Epistemology after 1950