Why do some ideas change the world, while others never get off the ground? Why do some policies transform. lives for the better, while others only cause more harm? What if future generations had a way to identify problems before damage is done or before great ideas are wasted? Critical study of the history of science, its successes and its failures, can provide the answers, and make sense of our present to help develop better futures.

In HPSC0010: History of Modern Science, we explore the development of science, technology, mathematics and medicine from the late 18th Century to the present; look critically at the different ways in which past societies understood the world and how it works. We study the complicated relations between scientific, popular, and religious views of the world; and we explore how some social movements have been fundamental in advancing scientific progress while other ideologies have driven exclusion, misinformation, and abuse.

WHAT DO WE EXPECT FROM YOU ON THIS MODULE?

• To attend lectures and tutorial seminars, and ensure your attendance is registered.

• To notify the course tutor, [email protected], if for any reason you are unable to attend.

• To complete the required preparation before the relevant tutorial seminar.

• To actively contribute to discussion in lectures and tutorial seminars.

• To read and follow the assessment instructions, including those related to submission.

• To contact [email protected] as soon as any issues arise.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM US ON THIS MODULE?

• Support to develop informed historical perspectives on the history of modern science and its relevance to urgent present-day issues.

• A practical introduction to cutting-edge approaches and methodologies, as well as some of the biggest ideas in the field from the past 50 years.

• Weekly opportunity to discuss your questions and insights both with the lecturer and the seminar tutors.

• Guidance to get the marks you deserve in assessments.

• Detailed feedback on your assessments to support your future work and further enhance your skills.

HOW WILL THIS MODULE BE TAUGHT?

• This module is taught as a combination of lecture; post-lecture discussion; tutorial seminar; and independent study in preparation for the tutorial seminar and assessments.

• Post-lecture discussion provides an informal opportunity to discuss your thoughts and chat about ideas with peers and with the lecturer.

• Independent study will usually take the form. of planning responses to questions using examples from the lecture and an essential reading. Optional further readings are also provided.

• Tutorial seminars provide an opportunity to talk through your planned question responses and get feedback that will help you get the marks you deserve in assessments.

ASSESSMENT

WHAT IS THE ASSESSMENT?

• The assessment is two short coursework essays.

• Essay 1: 1,000 words.

• Essay 2: 2,000 words.

WHEN ARE THE DEADLINES?

• Essay 1: 24 March 2025.

• Essay 2: 21 April 2025.