Voodoo Science and the Underpinnings of Modern Scientific Thought
John D. Lamb, Chemistry

We live in a world whose values, fashions, and opinions are heavily influenced by science and technology. Yet, despite the wealth of information about the world around us, confusion abounds concerning the interpretation of scientific “truths,” and there exists a general lack of appreciation for the limitations of the methods by which these truths have come to be known.

This course will discuss the methods by which scientists arrive at conclusions, and how these methods compare to other ways of knowing. We will call upon some of the fundamental principles of modern chemistry and physics to illustrate these ideas. Examples include: What is the nature of light - waves or particles? How does one thing depend on another (quantifying relationships)? Why do things happen? From such examples, students will derive a better appreciation of how to critically interpret scientific claims and make wise choices based on what we think we know. Case studies on timely issues such as global warming will give students an opportunity to apply the principles discussed.