2012-2013 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Courses
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PHIL 202 - Surseminar: Philosophical Journals Type of Course: Seminar
Prerequisites: Permission.
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PHIL 205 - Advanced Logic Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
This course continues the study of mathematical logic that began in PHIL 110. Typically, the course focuses on metalogic. Following an introduction to set theory and mathematical induction, students turn to the metatheoretical approach to first-order logic that culminates in proofs for completeness and soundness. We also address Gödel’s incompleteness theorems and issues pertaining to undecidability. Other possible topics include non-classical logics such as modal and paraconsistent logics.
Prerequisites:
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PHIL 210 - Modernism in Philosophy, Literature and the Arts Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Between 1890 and 1930, the forms of inquiry and artistic expression in Western culture went through radical, foundational transformation. Using representative texts from the humanities and the arts, this course examines the Modernist transformation in its historical, cultural and thematic context, using a multidisciplinary perspective to integrate topics in related areas of inquiry and expression. Fulfills the Historical Perspective (HP).
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy plus courses in related areas.
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PHIL 213 - The Ideal of the Educated Person Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
This course explores the suggestion that in ideal circumstances there is a close relationship between being educated and living a happy or “good” life. Looking to Socrates and Plato for inspiration, we explore questions concerning the impact of acquiring knowledge on ethical behavior and moral character, as well as the impact of morality on happiness. Topics include: (1) the nature of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom; and the way in which formal education contributes to these states, (2) the nature of virtue and moral value, and (3) what it means to flourish in our culture. Fulfills Values Perspective (VP) requirement.
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PHIL 214 - Postmodernism and Recent Continental Philosophy Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Introduces five contemporary European philosophical movements: hermeneutics, deconstructionism, critical theory, structuralism and poststructuralism. Fulfills Historical Perspective (HP) requirement.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy or permission of instructor.
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PHIL 215 - Kant and the 19th Century Type of Course: Lecture,
We study the philosophical legacy of Kant in the evolutionary philosophies of the nineteenth century. We ask what it is to philosophize in the context of cosmic and cultural evolution, in which thought and its concepts evolve. We consider rival versions of the claim that the development of consciousness, freedom, and rationality is the final purpose of the world. Readings will be selected from Kant, Fichte, Schelling, Hegel, Marx, and Peirce.
Prerequisites: PHIL 143 .
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PHIL 220 - Theories of Ethics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Examines the principal ethical theories from the history of Western philosophy, including such philosophers as Plato, Aristotle, Epicurus, Hume, Kant, Mill, Ross and Rawls. Topics include: What is “the Good”? Are there fundamental standards of right conduct? Are moral judgments objective? Why should we be moral? Fulfills Values Perspective (VP) requirement.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 221 - Social and Political Philosophy Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Surveys the leading philosophical accounts of social and political institutions. Property, civil and natural rights, freedom and obligations and the legitimation of political authority are treated in detail. Readings include both classical and contemporary sources. Fulfills Values Perspective (VP) requirement.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 228 - Contemporary Moral Theory Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Surveys recent work in moral theory (including both metaethical and normative issues) by leading Anglo-American philosophers. Fulfills Values Perspective (VP) requirement.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 232 - Case Studies in Environmental Ethics Type of Course: Seminar
An intensive examination of a small set of issues or cases chosen by course members. Recent topics include old growth forest, ecotourism, animal experimentation, invasive species and water-use restrictions.
Prerequisites: Environmental Ethics.
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PHIL 234 - Metaphysics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
An advanced study of the fundamental problems and issues concerning the nature of reality. The course may focus on historical or contemporary issues. A historical approach may involve an in-depth study of the metaphysical views of an historical figure or school of thought, including (but not limited to) Plato, Aristotle, and the Early Modern Philosophers. A contemporary approach may include one or more of the following topics: properties, substance, identity and persistence, free will, space and time, and mathematical objects.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 239 - Theories of Knowledge Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
An historical and ‘systems’ approach to epistemology examining four paradigms: Platonic-Idealistic, Empiricist, Kant’s Critical Idealism, and Linguistic Analysis, and also the PostModern thesis that all such are outdated exercises founded on fundamental confusions concerning what philosophy can do. In all cases, attention given to the nature, concept and sources of knowledge, with special attention to the interrelationships among belief, knowledge, evidence, proof, truth, and the problems of relativism, skepticism and foundationalism.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 240 - Epistemology Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
An examination of the nature of rationality and knowledge. Possible topics include (1) the problem of skepticism, (2) analyses of knowledge, (3) theories of justification, and (4) the central works of significant figures – for example, Plato, Descartes, Hume and Kant.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 241 - Philosophy of Science Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Examines such questions as: What is a scientific explanation? Can induction be justified? What could justify the claim that one theory is better than another? Are there such things as objective facts? Do scientific theories disclose the ultimate constituents of the universe? What is the difference between science and pseudoscience?
Prerequisites: One course in Philosophy or permission of instructor.
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PHIL 242 - Philosophy of Language Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
A philosophical examination of topics concerning the character and meaning of referring expressions and propositions. We focus on the nature of reference and meaning in the case of names, indexicals, and natural kind terms. Representative readings include works by Frege, Russell, Wittgenstein, Strawson, Quine, Putnam, Kaplan, and Kripke (namely, Naming and Necessity). Some background in logic is very helpful though not strictly necessary.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 243 - Philosophy of Psychology Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
A philosophical treatment of the possibility that the mind is a machine that can be studied scientifically. We examine questions concerning (1) the relationship between the mind and the brain, (2) the twin ideas that the human mind is a computer and that an artificial machine is capable of genuine cognition, (3) the nature of mental representation, and (4) various proposals for how the mind is structured, including connectionist architectures.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 250 - Plato Type of Course: Seminar
An advanced study of the philosophical thought of Plato. The seminar involves careful reading and discussion of one or more of the major dialogues, such as the Gorgias, Protagoras, Republic, Parmenides, Sophist or Theaetetus.
Prerequisites: PHIL 141 .
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PHIL 251 - Aristotle Type of Course: Seminar
An advanced study of the philosophical thought of Aristotle. The seminar involves careful reading and discussion of one or more of the major works, such as the De Anima, Physics, Metaphysics and Nicomachean Ethics.
Prerequisites: PHIL 141 .
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PHIL 252 - Topics in Ancient Western Philosophy Type of Course: Lecture
The course examines issues arising in the thought of various figures or movements in the Greek or Roman worlds. Topics will vary from year to year. Examples of the movements that might be discussed are the pre-Socratic traditions, Plato’s Academy, Aristotle’s Lyceum, Epicureanism, Stoicism, Skepticism, and Neoplatonism. Examples of relevant figures are thinkers such as Parmenides, Lucretius, Marcus Aurelius, Plotinus, and St. Augustine.
Prerequisites: Two courses in Philosophy.
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PHIL 256 - Kant Type of Course: Seminar
A study of Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason, regarded by many as the most important philosophical text of the last several hundred years.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy, including PHIL 143
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PHIL 260 - Kierkegaard and Nietzsche Type of Course: Seminar
Studies Kierkegaard and Nietzsche as seminal figures in 19th-century intellectual life and as sources of later 20th- and 21st-century philosophical developments. Particular attention is given to their views of human existence and of truth.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 263 - Philosophy of Mind Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
A critical examination of the nature and concept of mind. We consider the following questions: What is the relationship between the mind and the brain? What is the nature of consciousness and does the existence of conscious experience argue against a physicalist conception of the mind? Possible readings include works by Smart, Fodor, Jackson, Lewis, and Loar.
Prerequisites: Two courses in philosophy. Sophomore, Juniors, and Seniors only. (First year students must receive permission.)
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PHIL 270 - Philosophy of Law Type of Course: Seminar
Examines fundamental questions in philosophy of law, such as: What is the source and purpose of law? What is the nature of judicial reasoning, and is it subjective or governed by some set of principles? How do alternative theories of law explain rights, duties, liability, responsibility and so forth? What is the relationship between liberty, privacy and justice? Readings include selections from legal theory and a variety of contemporary court decisions. Fulfills Values Perspective (VP) requirement.
Prerequisites: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor.
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PHIL 272 - Advanced Issues in Medical Ethics Type of Course: Seminar
A rigorous investigation of two or three current controversies related to medicine, health policy and ethics. Readings include original materials from legal, medical and philosophical literature. Topics have included: surrogate motherhood, AIDS, xenogestation, stem-cell research and assisted suicide.
Prerequisites: PHIL 130 - Medical Ethics .
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PHIL 273 - Aids Pandemic Type of Course: Seminar
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) present American society with a public health challenge of unprecedented dimensions–a challenge, which will test not only our scientific and medical establishments, but our commitment to social justice, professional fidelity, and interpersonal solidarity. This course will draw on the rich philosophical, biological, epidemological, legal, medical, and sociological literatures in order to examine a number of the moral and public policy issues that have been raised by the HIV epidemic. Particular attention is given to the issues raised by the international nature of the pandemic. Fulfills the Verbal Expression requirement.
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PHIL 275 - Phenomenology and Hermeneutics Type of Course: Seminar
Traces the development of two major 20th-century movements in continental philosophy. Edmund Husserl and Maurice Merleau-Ponty are focused on in Phenomenology: Hans Georg Gadamer in Hermeneutics. In both, collateral reading will present the historical context and development of each movement.
Prerequisites: At least three courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 276 - Heidegger and Early 20th-Century Philosophy Type of Course: Seminar
Concentrates on developments in 19th- and 20th-century Continental philosophy, which influenced the main text of this seminar, Heidegger’s Being and Time. Attention also will be given to the broader cultural context and to parallel changes in American and British philosophy during the early 20th century.
Prerequisites: At least three courses in philosophy.
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PHIL 286 - Topics: Philosophy in Science Type of Course: Seminar
This seminar will focus on selected topics in Philosophy of Science. Recent topics have included confirmation, explanation, theory change, incommensurability, subjective Baysian probability theory, realism/anti-realism, and objectivity.
Prerequisites: One courses in philosophy, or permission.
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PHIL 295 - Senior Thesis Type of Course: Individual Projects
Students may opt to write a senior thesis. Completing a senior thesis does, by itself, meet the requirements for Honors in philosophy. For more information, please see the ‘Honors Program’ entry in the online academic catalog for the philosophy department.
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PHIL 297 - Honors Type of Course: Individual Projects
For information about Honors in philosophy, please see the ‘Honors Program’ entry in the online academic catalog for the philosophy department.
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PHIL 299 - Directed Study Type of Course: Individual Projects
For significant independent academic work, the department offers individual Directed Study. Students interested in these possibilities should consult with individual members of the philosophy faculty.
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PHIL 1000 - Introduction to Philosophy
Utilizing primary sources and commentary, the course introduces the student to the major schools of philosophy –idealism, realism, naturalism–through examining problems and theories in metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, social philosophy and anesthetics. Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Nietzsche, Mill and Rawls are reviewed.
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PHIL 1100 - Introduction to Logic
Introduces students to logic as a branch of philosophy, as well as a practical skill. Students learn to recognize and symbolize different patterns of reasoning. This is a hands-on course, with much class time spent doing exercises and solving problems.
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PHIL 1310 - Professional Ethics
Investigates moral problems that arise in-and-about-the world of business. The class discusses ethical issues in advertising, the moral status of affirmative action programs and the responsibilities of business toward the environment. Each student is expected to articulate the different sides of the issues and to defend his/her own views in discussion and in writing.
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PHIL 1320 - Social and Political Philosophy
Why do we live in a society and what kind of reasons can justify the existence of states? What is the most ideal form of government? What obligations, fundamental rights and liberties do we have? Is statehood necessarily immoral? What moral constraints should any form of government satisfy? Should wealth be distributed over the members of the society or should property right be sacred and unquestionable? These are some of the most fundamental questions of social and political philosophy. We will consider a wide range of historical and contemporary political theories that attempt to answer these questions. This course is designed to help you form your own political views and understand their historical roots and the arguments for and against them.
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PHIL 1330 - Business Ethics
In this course we will see how the qualities that make a company ethical are also those which can lead to the company’s success: the virtues of integrity, good management, and well established procedures of internal and external regulation. We will learn how successful enterprise balances its profit-making and risk-taking with regard to its employees,its share holders, its consumers and the environment. We will consider the issues of social justice inherent in business ethics: rights and responsibilities on personal, corporate, and international levels, and the issues of equity, fairness, discrimination and harassment.
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PHYS 020 - Discovering Physics Type of Course: Lecture, Laboratory
This course emphasizes hands-on experience and the learning of science using approaches paralleling the ways scientists gain new knowledge. Open to all undergraduates. No background in mathematics and science is assumed. Topics include wave and particle phenomena, with an emphasis on the properties of light. Two laboratories and group discussions per week. Discovering Physics uses teaching approaches that may be of interest to students with a concentration in Education. Graduate students in education who enroll in Discovering Physics must complete a science-education research project. Fulfills the Scientific Perspective.
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PHYS 030 - The Nature of Light Type of Course: Lecture, Laboratory
Follows the historical and philosophical development of our understanding of the nature of light leading to current ideas of space, time, mass and energy. Lecture demonstrations, modern versions of classic experiments and readings from original sources will be employed. Topics, treated qualitatively and with simple algebra, include particle theories of light, electromagnetic waves, emission of light from atoms, special relativity and the famous equation E=mc2and its implications. One laboratory every other week. Fulfills the Scientific Perspective.
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PHYS 110 - Introductory Physics - Part I Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion, Laboratory
Introductory level course stressing both conceptual understanding and problem solving. This is a survey course for both science majors and others. Stresses the simplicity and self-consistency of physical models in explaining a variety of physical phenomena, with special attention to applications in the life sciences. Topics include Newtonian mechanics and an introduction to the thermal properties of matter. Calculus is not required, but elements of algebra and trigonometry are reviewed and utilized. PHYS 110, with PHYS 111 , fulfills the usual entrance requirements for medical and dental schools. Three lectures and one discussion section per week, as well as one laboratory every other week. Fulfills the Scientific Perspective or Formal Analysis requirement.
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PHYS 111 - Introductory Physics - Part II Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion, Laboratory
A continuation of PHYS 110 . Topics include wave motion, electricity, magnetism, optics, and a survey of modern physics. Three lectures and one discussion session per week, as well as one laboratory every other week. The PHYS 110 -111 sequence is designed to fulfill the usual entrance requirements for medical and dental schools. Fulfills the Scientific Perspective.
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PHYS 120 - Introductory Physics - Part I Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion, Laboratory
A laboratory based modern mechanics course for science majors. This is a newly redesigned course to include hands-on activities, computer-rich laboratories, group problem-solving and an interactive environment. Two two-hour integrated lecture/discussion/laboratory session per week. Coverage is more in-depth than PHYS 110 . Fulfills the Scientific Perspective or Formal Analysis requirement.
Corequisites: MATH 120 or MATH 124 .
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PHYS 121 - Introductory Physics – Part II Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion, Laboratory
A laboratory based course on electricity and magnetism for science majors. This is a newly redesigned course to include hands-on activities, computer-rich laboratories, group problem-solving and an interactive environment. Two two-hour integrated lecture/discussion/laboratory session per week. Coverage is more in-depth than PHYS 111 .
Corequisites: MATH 121 or MATH 125 . Fulfills the Scientific Perspective or Formal Analysis requirement.
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PHYS 123 - Methods of Physics
This course covers the mathematical techniques needed for the study of physics at the intermediate and advanced level. Ordinary differential equations, vector calculus, partial differential equations, matrices, Fourier series, and complex variables.
Prerequisites: (MATH 120 or MATH 124 ) AND (MATH 121 or MATH 125 ). Physics majors are required to take this course during their sophomore year.
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PHYS 127 - Computer Simulation Laboratory Type of Course: Discussion, Laboratory
Introduces object oriented programming and methods of computer simulation and its diverse applications. The course is project oriented, with students proceeding at their own pace depending on their background and interests. Projects include planetary motion, chaotic systems, fractal phenomena, random systems, complex systems, and thermal systems. Methods include the numerical solution of differential equations, molecular dynamics, and Monte Carlo techniques. Two laboratory sections and two discussion periods per week.
Prerequisites: PHYS120, MATH120 or 124, or instructor permission.
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PHYS 130 - Oscillations, Waves and Optics Type of Course: Lecture, Laboratory
The third of a four-semester introductory survey of physics. The seminar meets for three hours per week plus an afternoon laboratory. Oscillations and harmonic motion, wave phenomena such as interference, diffraction and standing waves, plus ray and wave optics are some of the topics covered. Key experiments include studies of mechanical, acoustic and optical waves, wave resonance in oscillating systems, construction of optical instruments, and measurement of the speed of light. Prepares the student for the study of quantum systems in PHYS 131 . Fulfills the Scientific Perspective.
Prerequisites: PHYS 121
Corequisites: MATH 130
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PHYS 131 - Quantum Physics and Relativity Type of Course: Lecture, Laboratory
The last in a four-semester survey of physics; intended to follow PHYS 130 . After an introduction to relativity theory, the course emphasizes the experimental basis of atomic and nuclear structure leading to the development of wave mechanics. The laboratory uses modern research instrumentation to investigate contributions by Einstein, Rutherford, Compton, Moseley, Chadwick and others. Fulfills the Scientific Perspective.
Prerequisites: PHYS 130
Corequisites: MATH 131
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PHYS 140 - Energy, the Environment, and Climate Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Discusses the central role of energy production, distribution and consumption in human activities, and the range of social, economic and political impacts that follow. Experiments and data analysis will be conducted using the University’s campus physical plant as an extended laboratory. Fulfills the Scientific Perspective.
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PHYS 145 - Physics of Biomolecular networks Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
This course serves as an introduction to dynamical modeling in Biophysics and to physical principles underlying biological processes. The course will emphasize how the behavior of a biological system emerges from the interacting components. It will draw on examples from molecular, cellular, and developmental Biology, and from ecology, in order to explore physical and organizational principles that permeate different levels of biological organization, and will expose students to current research in Biophysics. The course should be of interest to Physics, Biology, Biochemistry, Mathematics and Computer Science majors.
Prerequisites: MATH120 or MATH124, plus either PHYS110, PHYS120, or CHEM102. No prerequisite in the relevant biology is needed.
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PHYS 150 - Statistical and Thermal Physics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Introduces the concepts of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics with the goal of understanding the behavior of macroscopic systems on the basis of microscopic theory. Topics include probability, entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, the Boltzmann probability distribution, heat and work, and the first and second law efficiencies of simple engines.
Prerequisites: PHYS 130 .
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PHYS 160 - Classical Mechanics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
PHYS 160 and PHYS 161 constitute an introduction to the concepts of classical physics at the intermediate level. Topics include particle and rigid body dynamics in inertial and noninertial reference frames. The necessary mathematical methods are introduced and applied.
Prerequisites: MATH 131 and PHYS 111 or PHYS 121 .
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PHYS 161 - Electricity and Magnetism Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Continuation of PHYS 160 . Topics include electro- and magnetostatics and electrodynamics through Maxwell’s quations and relativity. Develops useful mathematical methods.
Prerequisites: PHYS 160 .
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PHYS 165 - Continuum Mechanics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
An intermediate level course providing an introduction to fluid mechanics and elasto-mechanics. Applications of the theory to bird and insect flight, and swimming of large animals such as fish, and small organisms such as bacteria will be discussed. Locomotion in and on sand will be also discussed. Such an advanced course is necessary for students with interests in soft matter, elastomers, gels, granular materials, biophysics, and bio-mechanics. This course will be at the intermediate level. It will target physics and math majors, and biology majors with a strong math background. Typically students will take it in their junior or senior year. It will satisfy one of the physics elective requirements.
Prerequisites: PHYS120/121, MATH 120/121, PHYS160.
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PHYS 167 - Fluid Mechanics and Applications
Fluids refer to liquid and gas state of matter which covers more than 70% of the surface of the Earth and all of atmosphere. This course will explore the physics of fluids, and doing calculations using analytical and numerical techniques in weekly instructor led discussion sessions, and a semester long group based project. The project will include building a table top demonstration, and making a video presentation. Examples of project topics include water, oil and gas processing in industry, designing robots that swim, water purification, and more.
Prerequisites: Phys 160
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PHYS 169 - Information Theory, Inference, and Networks
This course will explore the basic concepts of Information theory – a topic that lies at the heart of many exciting areas of contemporary science and engineering – and its applications to statistical inference and network theory. Topics covered in the course include entropy as a measure of information, mutual information, information transmission and communication through noiseless or noisy channels, maximum likelihood methods for data analysis, and neural network models. The basic concepts developed will be applied to examples from a wide range of academic fields such as data compression and storage, biophysics, signal processing, neuroscience, machine learning, and finance, where information theory can be related to the theory of optimal investment in the stock market. Finally we will discuss how methods from information theory can be used to study and quantify interaction networks, a subject that lies at the heart of the modern science of complex systems.
Prerequisites: Math 120 or Math 124, and Math 121 or Math 125
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PHYS 171 - Introduction to Quantum Mechanics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Intermediate-level course providing an introduction to quantum mechanics and its applications to atoms, nuclei, molecules, and solids.
Prerequisites: PHYS 131 and MATH 131 .
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PHYS 201 - Classical Dynamics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Designed to prepare students for graduate work in physics. Topics include Hamilton’s principle, classical scattering theory, rigid body motion, canonical transformations, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, and mathematical methods of physics. Lectures are the same as PHYS 301 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.
Prerequisites: PHYS 160 and PHYS 161 .
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PHYS 202 - Electrodynamics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Designed to prepare students for graduate work in physics. Topics include boundary value problems in electrostatics and magnetostatics, electromagnetic-field equations and special relativity, electromagnetic waves, radiation theory, multipole fields, and mathematical methods of physics. Lectures are the same as PHYS 302 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.
Prerequisites: PHYS 161 .
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PHYS 205 - Quantum Mechanics – Part I Type of Course: Lecture
PHYS 205 and PHYS 206 constitute a comprehensive introduction to the concepts of quantum mechanics and their application in physics and chemistry. Sequence prepares students for graduate work. Lectures are the same as in PHYS 305 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.
Prerequisites: PHYS 171 and MATH 131 .
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PHYS 206 - Quantum Mechanics – Part II Type of Course: Lecture
PHYS 206 is a continuation of PHYS 205 .
Prerequisites: PHYS 205 .
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PHYS 209 - Statistical Mechanics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Designed to prepare students for graduate work in physics. The lectures are the same as in PHYS 309 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.
Prerequisites: PHYS 150 and PHYS 171 .
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PHYS 219 - Electronics Laboratory Type of Course: Lecture, Laboratory
Examines principles of modern electrical measurement and control. Introduces DC- and AC-circuit theory and use of test instruments such as multimeters and the oscilloscope. Emphasizes electronic circuit design, operational amplifiers and digital circuits. Two lectures and one laboratory each week. Suitable for intermediate-level undergraduates and graduate students in the sciences.
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PHYS 243 - Technology of Renewable Energy
The technology of renewable energy will is a course designed to give an overview of the technical issues confronting the the conversion of the worlds fossil fuel economy to one were the major sources of energy are sustainable. The pros and cons of the three major renewable energy sources will be discussed, solar, wind and biofuels, in addition to some of the less universal sources such as tides and geothermal and of course efficiency, the hidden energy resource. No discussion of renewables is complete without a good understanding of the electrical grid, which is central to the implementation of renewable energy. The present grid is designed for a smaller number of large generating stations and relatively even power generation and loads. The renewable grid will have many smaller energy sources, as small as single solar panels on the top of telephone poles and rapidly fluctuating sources as winds gust through windmills and clouds cover and uncover solar panels. Through lecture and demonstration we will learn how a nationwide energy network might work in the future. This course is designed for science and non science majors alike, however math skills including algebra and trigonometry will be expected.
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PHYS 290 - Senior Seminar Type of Course: Seminar
This capstone covers a selection of topics of current interest in physics. Astrophysics will be the topic covered in Spring 2009. This course covers the natural history of stars from their formation out of interstellar dust and gas to the final remnants they leave behind when their active lives are finished. Among the many topics discussed will be radiative transfer and nucleosynthesis, and general relativity will be introduced.
Prerequisites: PHYS 150 and PHYS 171 .
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PHYS 299 - Directed Studies in Physics
Independent student work in physics with the guidance of a faculty adviser. With permission of the instructor, students may enroll for senior capstone or honors projects, directed readings in areas not covered in regular courses, or independent research in theoretical, experimental or applied physics. Offered for variable credit. PHYS 299 may be taken more than once.
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PHYS 301 - Classical Dynamics
Graduate-level course in classical mechanics. Topics are similar to PHYS 201 , but are treated in greater depth.
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PHYS 302 - Classical Electrodynamics
Graduate-level course in classical electromagnetism. Topics are similar to PHYS 202 , but are treated in greater depth.
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PHYS 303 - Research Apprenticeship
Students participate actively in an experimental or theoretical research group. Ph.D. students enroll in the course for three semesters with a minimum of one semester in a theoretical group and one semester in an experimental group. M.A. students take a minimum of one semester.
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PHYS 305 - Quantum Mechanics – Part I Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
PHYS 305 and PHYS 306 offer a comprehensive introduction to quantum mechanics and its application in physics and chemistry. Topics include the foundations of quantum mechanics, symmetries and angular momentum, particle in a central potential, electron spin, and perturbation theory.
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PHYS 306 - Quantum Mechanics – Part II Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
PHYS 306 is a continuation of PHYS 305 . Topics include scattering theory, interaction of radiation with matter, second quantization, applications to simple atoms and molecules, and an introduction to many-body theory.
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PHYS 309 - Statistical Mechanics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Examines statistical mechanics with applications to physical systems. Topics include ensemble theory, the statistical basis of thermodynamics, quantum statistics, the virial expansion of a classical gas, ideal Bose and Fermi systems, the renormalization group, and fluctuations.
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PHYS 310 - Condensed Matter Physics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Examines experimental properties and the quantum theory of solids. Topics include crystal and reciprocal lattice structures, the free-electron theory of metals, electronic band structure and the Fermi surface, lattice vibrations and the elementary excitations of solids.
Prerequisites: PHYS 305 or permission of instructor.
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PHYS 319 - Advanced Electronics Laboratory Type of Course: Lecture, Laboratory
Similar to PHYS 219 , but more advanced. Topics are treated in greater depth. Suitable for graduate students in the sciences.
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PHYS 320 - Advanced Seminar in Physics
Provides for special coverage of topics in physics of current research interest. Offered for variable credit.
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PHYS 325 - Research Seminar
Student participation seminar on current research problems. Offered for variable credit.
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PHYS 327 - Advanced Computer Simulation Laboratory Type of Course: Discussion, Laboratory
Similar to PHYS127 but more advanced. Suitable for graduate students in the sciences or undergraduates who have completed PHYS127.
Prerequisites: PHYS127 or instructor permission.
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PHYS 343 - Technology of Renewable Energy
The technology of renewable energy will is a course designed to give an overview of the technical issues confronting the the conversion of the worlds fossil fuel economy to one were the major sources of energy are sustainable. The pros and cons of the three major renewable energy sources will be discussed, solar, wind and biofuels, in addition to some of the less universal sources such as tides and geothermal and of course efficiency, the hidden energy resource. No discussion of renewables is complete without a good understanding of the electrical grid, which is central to the implementation of renewable energy. The present grid is designed for a smaller number of large generating stations and relatively even power generation and loads. The renewable grid will have many smaller energy sources, as small as single solar panels on the top of telephone poles and rapidly fluctuating sources as winds gust through windmills and clouds cover and uncover solar panels. Through lecture and demonstration we will learn how a nationwide energy network might work in the future. This course is designed for science and non science majors alike, however math skills including algebra and trigonometry will be expected.
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PHYS 345 - Advanced Physics of Biomolecular Networks Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Similar to PHYS 145, but more advanced. Topics are treated in greater depth. Suitable for graduate students in the sciences.
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PHYS 365 - Advanced Continuum Mechanics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Similar to PHYS165, but more advanced. Topics are treated in greater depth. Suitable for graduate students in the sciences.
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PHYS 367 - Fluid Mechanics and Applications
Fluids refer to liquid and gas state of matter which covers more than 70% of the surface of the Earth and all of atmosphere. This course will explore the physics of fluids, and doing calculations using analytical and numerical techniques in weekly instructor led discussion sessions, and a semester long group based project. The project will include building a table top demonstration, and making a video presentation. Examples of project topics include water, oil and gas processing in industry, designing robots that swim, water purification, and more.
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PHYS 369 - Information Theory, Inference, and Networks
This course will explore the basic concepts of Information theory – a topic that lies at the heart of many exciting areas of contemporary science and engineering – and its applications to statistical inference and network theory. Topics covered in the course include entropy as a measure of information, mutual information, information transmission and communication through noiseless or noisy channels, maximum likelihood methods for data analysis, and neural network models. The basic concepts developed will be applied to examples from a wide range of academic fields such as data compression and storage, biophysics, signal processing, neuroscience, machine learning, and finance, where information theory can be related to the theory of optimal investment in the stock market. Finally we will discuss how methods from information theory can be used to study and quantify interaction networks, a subject that lies at the heart of the modern science of complex systems.
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PHYS 390 - Colloquium
Weekly invited lecturers speak on current research topics. Required for all graduate students and recommended for undergraduates involved in research. Not offered for credit.
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PHYS 397 - Research
Thesis and dissertation preparation. Offered for variable credit.
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PHYS 399 - Directed Study
Directed research in physics under the supervision of a faculty adviser. Graduate students may enroll for research in theoretical, experimental, or computational physics. Offered for variable credit. PHYS 399 may be taken more than once.
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PSCI 010 - Difficult Dialogue Seminar: Israel, Palestine and the United States
The course examines the roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and attempts at establishing peace. The role of the United States in promoting a resolution to the conflict will also be analyzed. The course will emphasize the practice of dialog, in conjunction with the Difficult Dialogs program.
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PSCI 050 - Introduction to American Government Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Introduces the American governmental system. Overviews contemporary structure, operation and performance of national institutions, including the courts. Addresses American political culture, voting and elections, the evolution of federalism, law and politics, and important public issues, such as civil rights, civil liberties and economic change.
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PSCI 069 - Introduction to International Relations Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Introduction to International Relations. This survey course offers an introduction to the study of international relations beginning with a discussion of the primary approaches to world politics: Realism, Liberalism, and Constructivism. Each approach can account for the nature of the international system and the actors within it. The course discusses how these attempts to understand world politics/international relations are generally divided into three “levels of analysis”: individual, domestic/state, and system. The course applies these concepts to key events in the recent history of world politics, including World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. The course focuses on the post-Cold War period and the role of international law, international organizations, security, economics, and social issues such as the environment, gender and human rights.
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PSCI 070 - Introduction to Comparative Politics Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
The study of comparative politics is based upon the premise that we can better understand domestic political dynamics and political phenomena in general, by comparing political conditions across and within (subnational units) countries. Specifically, comparative politics investigates the following types of questions: In what ways do groups and individuals participate in politics? Why have some countries developed stable democratic political systems, while others remain authoritarian or experience frequent changes in government? What relationship does a country’s political organization have with its economic performance, social stability and relations with other countries? In exploring these questions, we will compare both developed and developing countries in terms of political institutions (constitutions, executives, legislatures, courts and political parties), political behavior (voting and collective action), political culture and political economy.
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PSCI 079 - Model United Nations I
The Model United Nations program is a realistic simulation of the activities of ambassadors and representatives of different member nations who serve in various agencies of the United Nations. Students assume the role of ambassadors or special U.N. representatives. They participate in live simulations of the U.N. Security Council, Economic Social and Cultural Council, and Special Middle East Summit. Students participate in the Harvard Model U.N. Conference every year. During this conference, Clark students known as delegates enter the world of diplomacy, negotiation and high politics as they grapple with complex realities of peace and security, human rights, women’s rights and economic development, and they pit their skills against delegates from other universities representing different countries. Delegates prepare by thoroughly researching policy positions of countries they are representing and contribute to a lively exchange of ideas and simulate an authentic environment that parallels U.N. meetings. This active-learning experience complements classroom learning and prepares Clark students to enter a professional career in government, international organizations or the academe. Repeat registration allowed.
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PSCI 080 - Model United Nations II
The Model United Nations program is a realistic simulation of the activities of ambassadors and representatives of different member nations who serve in various agencies of the United Nations. Students assume the role of ambassadors or special U.N. representatives. They participate in live simulations of the U.N. Security Council, Economic Social and Cultural Council, and Special Middle East Summit. Students participate in the Harvard Model U.N. Conference every year. During this conference, Clark students known as delegates enter the world of diplomacy, negotiation and high politics as they grapple with complex realities of peace and security, human rights, women’s rights and economic development, and they pit their skills against delegates from other universities representing different countries. Delegates prepare by thoroughly researching policy positions of countries they are representing and contribute to a lively exchange of ideas and simulate an authentic environment that parallels U.N. meetings. This active-learning experience complements classroom learning and prepares Clark students to enter a professional career in government, international organizations or the academe. Repeat registration allowed.
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PSCI 091 - The Gender Gap and American Politics Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
This first-year seminar explores how since the early 1980s, the “Gender Gap” has received substantial attention from the media, politicians and scholars. Differences between women and men in the general public have been found in voter turn-out, candidate and party preferences, as well as in attitudes on important domestic and foreign policy issues. On the other hand, women and men, overall, hold remarkably similar opinions on some political issues. A major focus of our course is on comparing the political attitudes and behavior of women and men and understanding the factors that result in gender differences and similarities in politics, for example, differences in political and gender role socialization, education, employment, etc. We also consider how different subgroups of men and women compare to each other and to political patterns for their genders. The biggest gender gap in American politics continues to be at the elite level, where men still greatly outnumber women in running for and securing elective political offices. Another major focus is on explaining the reasons for this difference. We consider the characteristics, backgrounds and motivations of people - men and women - who run for local, state and national elective offices, and the factors that affect their electoral success or failure, including party support, campaign funding and media coverage. Finally, we examine whether there are any important differences in the policy preferences, issue priorities, representational styles and impact of female and male elected officials.
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PSCI 092 - Women and War Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
This first-year seminar is part of the International Studies Stream (ISS): “to succeed in contemporary society, students must be familiar with the ways common problems such as economic growth, immigration, social welfare, environmental regulation are dealt with differently across the globe. They need to understand the historical, social and political foundations for these differences, and they need to be able to assess their own societies within an international context.” That said, this first-year seminar examines the impact of war on women as both victims (i.e. refugees, rape victims) and participants (i.e. warriors) as part of the larger understanding of women’s role in society, both domestic and international society. The course will introduce students to the theoretical approaches in international relations for understanding the connection between gender and war. Various case studies of wars will be explored. Questions to be considered include: How do we understand gender, particularly in conflict situations? Does war affect women and men differently? If so, how? How does militarization and conflict perpetuate patriarchal power arrangements? What can the various case studies tell us about women’s role in society before, during and after conflict and war?
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PSCI 093 - International Human Rights Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
This first-year seminar examines the evolution and development of international human rights norms and the design of legal instruments, such as the international criminal court and ad-hoc tribunals, to protect and promote human rights across the globe. The course seeks to introduce students to the study of human rights from an international relations perspective with emphasis on international law and organizations. The major focus of the course will be on issues such as slavery, genocide, child rights, women’s political empowerment, discrimination, death penalty, economic rights, and civil and political liberties. Overall, emphasis of this course will be on understanding the impact of human rights norms on interstate relations, how human rights norms shapes the foreign policy of nation-states, and how states respond to international regime pressure.
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PSCI 094 - Dictators and Revolutionaries in Latin America Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
This first-year seminar studies the stereotype of the Latin American military dictator or the leftist revolutionary which has become commonplace in contemporary culture. Whether it is the right-wing autocrat clad in Prussian-style military dress – General Augusto Pinochet of Chile or Alfredo Stroessner of Paraguay, for example, or leftist revolutionaries such as Fidel Castro and Ché Guevarra, bearded and combat ready in military fatigues, these stereotypical images convey to us in shorthand form understandings about Latin American society. They convey or reinforce the image of a militaristic and violent society, politically passionate and ideologically polarized. They convey the image of a society where the use of force trumps the rule of law. As with all stereotypes, there is more than a grain of truth in these characterizations but also much insight or understanding that they foreclose. In particular, such stereotyping begs the question as to why Latin America’s modern political history is rife with examples of political violence and extremism emanating from both ends of the political spectrum. This course seeks to enable students to answer this question. More broadly, it seeks to help students to develop their analytical skills and theoretical understandings of reactionary and revolutionary political movements. While the regional focus will be on Latin America, the skills development will be global in its applicability. Ultimately, the skills that students develop in this course should enhance their ability to think critically about contemporary incidents of political violence and inform their actions as concerned citizens.
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PSCI 095 - Transnationalism: Individuals, Networks, and Global Politics Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
While normative debates rage over whether it ‘good’ or ‘bad’, as a concept globalization is often dealt with superficially. This seminar seeks to address this problem by assessing the transnational dimensions of globalization—examining how it works, why it works the way it does, and its implications on individuals, nation-states, and the international system. Participants will engage with the concept of transnationalism through examination of a range of globally networked interactions including (but not limited to) the cross-boundary movement of goods, money, services, people, and ideas using the primary analytical tools employed by International Relations (IR) scholars.
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PSCI 096 - Just and Unjust Wars Type of Course: First Year Seminar
This first-year seminar examines significant questions such as – why states and societies go to war, whether doing so is ever justified, and what (if anything) might make it so. Students will be afforded the opportunity to explore a range of historical and contemporary armed conflicts through the lens of the political, moral, ethical, and legal criteria which constitute the basis of the ‘laws of war’ as well as the international conventions and norms derived from them. Particular attention will be paid to the dilemmas associated with the decision to go to war, conduct during war, and war’s aftermath. Students will engage with these and related dilemmas through consideration of specific examples including (but not limited to) preemptive war, wars of self-defense, humanitarian intervention, peacekeeping and peace operations, terrorism and wars of national liberation, the status of non-combatants and non-state actors, and the rebuilding of post-conflict societies.
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PSCI 099 - Public Opinion and American Democracy Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
This course provides an overview of trends in American public opinion over the past fifty years, techniques for measuring public opinion, and perspectives on the role public opinion plays (or should play) in government. Topics include differences in public opinion among different subgroups of the population, such as differences between men and women, or whites and non-whites; the causes of change in public opinion, and differences in public opinion between the United States and other nations. The goal of this course is to help students become educated consumers of information on public opinion and to develop critical perspectives on the role public opinion should be in democratic politics. The course will also introduce students to several major national and international surveys and discuss the mechanics of survey design.
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PSCI 102 - Political Science Fiction Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
First-year seminar/Science fiction enables us to study the contemporary political world from a distance—to shed light on its problems and its weaknesses, and to be imaginative about alternatives, both hope-filled and deeply disturbing. This course will explore important questions and concepts in the study of politics through various works of science fiction, including novels, short stories, and films. Through science fiction, we will consider ideas like power, authority, legitimacy, and identity. We will also take up works of science fiction that examine and critique political systems, including democracy and dictatorship. We will read works that explore issues of racism and sexism through utopian and dystopian visions of society, and will consider the meaning and value of equality, as well as other controversial issues. Fulfills the Global Perspective requirement.
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PSCI 102 - Political Science Fiction Type of Course: First-Year Seminar
This course enables us to study the contemporary political world from a distance—to shed light on its problems and its weaknesses, and to be imaginative about alternatives, both hope-filled and deeply disturbing. This course will explore important questions and concepts in the study of politics through various works of science fiction, including novels, short stories, and films. Through science fiction, we will consider ideas like power, authority, legitimacy, and identity. We will also take up works of science fiction that examine and critique political systems, including democracy and dictatorship. We will read works that explore issues of racism and sexism through utopian and dystopian visions of society, and will consider the meaning and value of equality, as well as other controversial issues. Fulfills the Global Perspective requirement.
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PSCI 103 - Africa and the World Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion
Examines the historical and contemporary relationships of sub-Saharan Africa and Europe, the United States, the Middle East and parts of Asia, and Latin America. The course explores issues such as global involvement in Africa’s civil wars, genocide in Rwanda, Islamic fundamentalism, the role of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund in Africa’s development, and the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The role of the United Nations and nongovernmental organizations in development, conflict and humanitarian concerns is also explored.
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