The theme of this course is the historical relationship between science and religion in Western Civilization.  In the course, we will examine historical events where science and religion have intersected in particularly dramatic ways, whether in conflict or in harmony.

Beginning with the emergence of science in ancient Greece, we look at the confrontation of rationalism with traditional religion.  With the rise of Christianity, we examine the response of the early Christians to pagan philosophy; then we look at the medieval conflict of reason and faith, the impact of the Reformation, the Scientific Revolution of the 16th and 17th centuries, and the controversy over Darwinism versus Creationism.  We will be guided by four major questions:  (1)  Was the relationship between science and Christianity one of conflict or harmony?  (2)  In what ways have religious questions guided scientific inquiry?  (3)  What impact have scientific discoveries had upon religion?  (4)  Are science and religion compatible, incompatible, or incommensurable?

Course Objectives:

• Develop an understanding of and tolerance for diverse viewpoints on the subject of religion versus science.
• Develop the ability to read and critique primary historical sources.
• Develop oral and written communication skills.
• Create and engage in fruitful discussion and exchange of ideas through the seminar format.

Assignments:

Written assignments include three "reaction essays" (3-4 pages each ) plus an 8-10 page interpretive paper, containing a thesis or argument, on a theme related to the interaction of religion and science.  The subject of the interpretive paper may be an historical person, event, or argument.  Topics must be approved in advance by instructor.

The shorter reaction papers should be your critical reflections on, and interpretations of, the principal readings and questions for the unit.  The longer, interpretive paper may be a further development of one of your reaction papers, or it may be on a subject developed in the class, or on one not covered in class.  In all writing assigments, you should strive to construct logical arguments supported by valid data.

In lieu of writing the interpretive paper, students may elect to construct a web site on a subject or individual relating to the theme of the course.  Criteria for grading the web site will be similar to those used to grade the interpretive paper:  it must be well researched, well written, and must contain accurate information.

Classroom assignments are also important.  Students are expected to come to class prepared.  Please read your assignments before coming to class, and be prepared to join the discussion.  In addition, each student is required to prepare and present one oral report (approximately 10 minutes length) on a topic relevant to the discussion for the period.  (Please see the Guidelines for Oral Reports page.)

Please note that this course is a colloquium, or seminar, in other words a conference or group discussion course. It is governed by the principle of civility.  This means that everyone’s right to his or her views, beliefs, and values shall be respected by all.  It is especially important to be reminded of this given the controversial nature of the material being presented in this course.

Course Web Site:

The syllabus, assignments, reading and discussion guide, and related material will be placed on the course web site (http://honors.nmsu.edu/weamon/hon224g.html).  Since the web site will be periodically updated, it is essential that you access it often.

Grading:

 

Assignments: Reaction essays:  400 points (100 points each) Class discussion:  200 points Oral report:  100 points (see guidelines) Interpretive paper or web page: 300 points (Extra credit assignment:  100 points; see guidelines) Total:  1000 points (up to 1,100 points with extra credit)

Grading Scheme: A:  900-1000 points B:  800-899 points C:  700-799 points D:  600-699 points F:  below 600 points

Textbooks:

 (LNGN) David C. Lindberg and Ronald Numbers, ed., God and Nature
 Sophocles, The Oedipus Cycle
 Bertholt Brecht, Galileo
 (SB) Sourcebook (purchase at Corbett Center copy center)
Occasional web-based short texts linked in syllabus