FYS 26 Arguing with Science: The Practice and Communication of Scientists
"Science!" is a media meme, yet it is at the same time a culturally and politically charged subject. This course will explore the double meaning of arguing with science. First, we'll examine how people work with science and use it to help make sense of the world. Second, we'll examine how science is communicated and why people might mistrust both science and scientists. Students will probe the scientific method, in particular, how hypotheses and observations work together in the formation of scientific theory, acknowledging the appropriate role of skepticism in the process. Simultaneously, students will learn to communicate the nuances of a scientific understanding to the public, focusing on topics that have broad societal impacts on their own communities. Students will gain experience in scientific thinking, reading, and writing, as well as insight into how science can be used (or misused) in addressing contemporary problems. Open only to first year frosh.