Course content

This course describes the ideas, culture and trends in social historical aspects within the development of the natural sciences particularly after the Enlightenment. Topics include the scientific revolution, the chemical revolution, the linnean tradition, the darwinian revolution, aspects of 19th and 20th century chemistry and physics, and of 20th century biology. Interdisciplinary topics such as women in science, science and religion, and the history of Trondheim as a city of knowledge will be treated as well. Teaching methods include lectures, student led seminars and excursions. Guest lectures by internationally renowned experts may be included.

Learning outcome

The student shall: - Acquire knowledge of important aspects in the history of chemistry, physics and biology from the scientific revolution up until today - Be able to view the history of chemistry, physics and biology in context and identify trends in 18th, 19th and 20th century history of science - Have experience in reading journal articles in the history of science, interpreting the texts and being critical of them - Be able to synthesize information from various advanced texts and contrast the historical events with trends in the history of science
- Be able to present journal articles orally as well as in writing, discuss the contents and connect the texts to the rest of the syllabus - Have acquired experience in writing advanced historical texts

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, student led seminars, excursions. Guest lectures and laboratory activities may be included.

Compulsory assignments

• Term dissertation/assignment w/presentation
• Approved participation during seminars (including presentation)
• 80% attendence is required

Recommended previous knowledge

Master degree in natural science or history. One or more courses in science education is desirable.

Course materials

Textbook, book chapters, journal articles as well as primary sources from the 16th through the 20th centuries. The syllabus will vary from year to year and will be presented at the start of the course.

Credit reductions