HIST 1115

FWS: Islam and Science in Modern World, 1800-Present

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2015-2016.

What does science mean? The history of science presents a puzzle. Vibrant cultures of astronomy and medicine have long flourished in Muslim societies, yet they have often been considered unscientific within western frameworks. Why has knowledge produced by Muslims been understood at different times as either 'scientific' or 'unscientific'?  To address these questions, we will examine Muslim cultures of science and explore alternative understandings of science. Through readings and discussions we will follow Muslim astronomers sailing the Indian Ocean and an Egyptian traveler writing about science in Paris. In turn, we will examine a global corporation of traditional Muslim medicine and how Pakistani saints discussed psychoanalysis. Readings will include travel accounts, histories, and fiction. Students will craft strong arguments through formal and creative writing exercises.

When Offered Fall.

Satisfies Requirement First-Year Writing Seminar.

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