Special Topics In History And Philosophy Of Science

In our modern world, as scientific research is becoming global, how should we explain elements of cultural heritage, regional distinctiveness and national pride that continue to manifest? In order to analyze the question, this class introduces central historical and philosophical issues in traditions, styles, and nationalism reflected in scientific development in the modern world. First introducing debates in philosophy of science about paradigms and traditions of science, the course will then bring these philosophical tools into analyzing and comparing a variety of historical trajectories in scientific developments in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology in modern Europe, United States, East Asia, and Southeast Asian since late eighteenth century.