Course Meeting Times
Lectures: 2 sessions / week; 1.5 hrs / session
Prerequisites
No prerequisites.
Course Description
This class explores the changing roles of physics and physicists during the 20th century. Topics range from relativity theory and quantum mechanics to high-energy physics and cosmology. We examine the development of modern physics and the role of physicists within shifting institutional, cultural, and political contexts, such as Imperial Britain, Nazi Germany, and the US during World War II, and the Cold War.
Readings
There is no assigned textbook for this course. All reading assignments should be completed before the appropriate class session.
Grading
Paper 1: 25%
Paper 2 (first version): 20%
Paper 2 (revised version): 20%
Paper 3: 35%
