136-343 Scientific Controversy (Science 3)

Formerly available as 136-305. Students who have completed 136-305 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. Students cannot gain credit for both this subject and 136-229/329 before 1999 or 136-043 after 1998. Only available at science third year; for all other levels, see 136-043 Modern Scientific Controversy. This subject is based on 136-043 but involves additional work.

Usually two second-year HPS subjects.

This subject involves the study of historical, philosophical and sociological aspects of scientific controversies. Case studies to be examined include the 'modern revolution' in the earth sciences and the on-going controversy about the 'death of the dinosaurs'. Students completing this subject should develop detailed knowledge of both philosophical and sociological frameworks for the analysis of cumulative and revolutionary change in science; practice in applying these frameworks to historical and contemporary instances of scientific change; skills in the critical analysis of scientific publications; and improved written and oral communication skills.