The History of Science - 1700 to 1900

This course reveals how experimental and theoretical investigation into a host of new subjects dramatically shaped natural science from the period of the Enlightenment, or Age of Reason, through the 19th century. As much a history course as it is a science course, it cuts across scientific disciplines to show you the spirit of excitement and exploration that accompanied the development of science. It explains how the great thinkers of the period considered issues ranging from weightless matter and geological catastrophes to the existence of an unsuspected prehistoric world. And it illuminates science's complex relationship with society by examining their dilemma of trying to unearth basic scientific principles while contending with equally demanding pressures from State, Church, and culture.… (more)