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History and Philosophy of Science and Technology offers an academic path for students who wish to combine serious work
in the sciences with the humanities and social sciences. Each program is tailored to the student's own
interests: some may choose to focus on ancient mathematics or archaeoastronomy. Others may choose to work
in modern physics, perhaps taking quantum physics while pursuing the philosophical questions that pushed
Einstein and Heisenberg towards their theoretical work. Another possible field might be in the biological sciences,
for instance, the origins and reception of Darwinism. Past students have tackled questions in Renaissance art and science
and in contemporary geology. Pre-med or science students often find that history of science courses help situate
their technical, biological, chemical, or mathematical work in a broader historical perspective. Historically
and philosophically-minded undergraduates can tackle history of science questions regarding the roots of
scientific fields, or the development of science policy issues.
Most students concentrating in the history of science come to the colloquia series held bi-monthly on topics about issues
and recent developments in the fields of history and philosophy of science. Senior theses are encouraged but not required.
At present, students may concentrate on history of science in a variety of ways. History majors may select a thematic concentration in the new history and science major; philosophy majors may also elect to complete the special sub-major in history and philosophy of science in the Philosophy department; Thematic
concentrations in history of science and technology or history and philosophy of science are also possible within the Program in Science, Technology and Society (STS). Finally, with the assistance of the faculty, interested students can assemble an individually-designed major.
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