HIST 281 - Magic, Marvels, and Nature in the Pre-Modern World

(3 units) CO9

Explanation of nature to the seventeenth century. Discussions of astronomy, astrology, natural magic, alchemy, plants and animals, curiosities, the body, natural operations, observations, and experiment.

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. relate science and technology from the period of the pre-Socratics to the age of Isaac Newton to social, commercial, religious, and economic problems and be able to distinguish sound scientific argumentation and the use of observational evidence as opposed to unsound scientific reasoning by means of engaging with the scientific debates of various periods.
2. explain how scientific and technological discoveries and innovations affected social institutions, professional roles, and education, and how scientific and technological knowledge was produced and consumed as part of social processes within various communities.
3. analyze and synthesize primary, secondary, and cultural sources.
4. present ideas in a clear and persuasive manner both orally and in writing.
5. use historical evidence to analyze the experiences and cultural struggles of those articulating conceptually revolutionary ideas regarding the operation of nature and the body.

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