Themes of History os Science and Technology

Recommended Prerequisites

NA

Teaching Methods

The course is developed under a system of multitutorials seminars given by various experts using the following methodologies:
‐ expository method, complemented by students bibliographic and Web inquiries
‐ possible use of blended learning models, supported by a Moodle like platform
‐ encouragement and participation in workshops, conferences and debates
‐ oral presentations and continuous email support
‐ online availability of relevant bibliography and other contents.

Evaluation: A small research project on one of the course topics will culminate in an oral presentation at a public session and the delivery of a written report formatted as a paper. The submission of this work to a national or international journal will be encouraged.

Learning Outcomes

This curricular unit aims to give a broad overview of the growth of science and technology fundamental aspects, their organization, cultural and institutional relationship as well as to engage in critical reflections about the scientific development and its connection to the present.

Students who successfully complete this subject will

- acquire an effective grasp of fundamental aspects concerned with the history of science and technology (HoST)

- be able to understand the complex dynamics of epistemological and cultural factors contributing to changes in science

- develop research skills

- make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources

- gain correct knowledge of the documentation and citation techniques used in the writing of HoST

- acquire essay writing competency in particularly the capability to synthesize and discuss different points of view as well as to critically present new arguments.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Science and Universities

Academies and scientific development

The construction of disciplinary sciences: places, language and communication

Quantification and accuracy

Science and Power

Themes to choose from:

Mathematical Sciences

Nautical Sciences and Discoveries

The Scientific Revolution

Newton and the natural philosophy

Alchemy and the chemical revolution

Languages of Chemistry

From Astronomy to Astrophysics

Quantum theory

The theory of relativity

Natural History

Earth Sciences

Physiology and biochemistry

Evolution and genetics

The revolution in molecular biology

Medical and pharmaceutical sciences

The Industrial Revolution

Head Lecturer(s)

Carlos Manuel Baptista Fiolhais

Assessment Methods

Assessment
A small research project on one of the course topics will culminate in an oral presentation at a public session and the delivery of a written report formatted as a paper: 100.0%

Bibliography

P. Dear, Revolutionizing the Sciences: European Knowledge and its Ambition, 1500-1700, 2nd ed, Princeton, 2009

Ridder-Symoens, Rüegg (eds) A History of the University in Europe, 3vols, CUP, 2004

D.C. Lindberg (ed), The Cambridge History of Science, CUP, 2003-2009, vols. 4, 5, 6

Schaffer, Roberts, Raj, Delbourgo (eds) The Brokered World–Go-Betweens & Global Intelligence, 1770-1820, Watson P.I.LLC, USA, 2009

M. Daumas, Histoire générale des techniques, Paris: PUF, 1996.

C. Smith, The science of energy: a cultural history of energy physics in Victorian Britain, London: Athlone Press, 1998

H. Kragh, Quantum Generations: A History of Physics in the 20th century, Princeton, NY: PUP, 1999

Olby, Cantor, Christie & Hodge (eds) Companion to the History of Modern Science, London: Routledge, 1996

D. Oldroyd, Thinking about Earth: A History of Ideas in Geology. CUP, 1996

M.S.J. Rudwick, Scenes From Deep Time. Early Pictorial Representations of the Prehistoric World, Chicago-London: UCP, 1992