honors classes & Conversion
| GENERAL HONORS (GH) CLASSES | CLASS CONVERSION | HONORS PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS |
GH 301A: impact of the theory of evolution
Spring 2012
 |
course description
This
course considers the history of religion, philosophy, and science
leading up to The philosophy and methods of science are illustrated with studies that lead to the acceptance of evolution as a valid scientific theory of origins. To help you understand why the specific topics have been selected, the course will begin with an in-depth study of the Kitzmiller, et al. v. Dover [Pennsylvania] Area School District federal court trial and ruling on whether Intelligent Design is a valid scientific alternative to evolution. |
Instructor: Dr. george bakken
Dr. Bakken teaches in the Biology department (http://www.indstate.edu/biology/faculty/bakken.htm). However, despite publishing over 60 scientific papers in Biology, he’s a bit of a fraud - his PhD is actually in physics! He obtained his BS in physics and mathematics with a minor in philosophy at North Dakota State University, and then went to Rice University in Houston, Texas where he received his MA and PhD in laboratory astrophysics with a NASA fellowship. He then pursued a lifelong interest in biology by moving to the Missouri Botanical Garden and the University of Michigan with support from the Ford foundation and the National Science Foundation to work on biophysical and physiological ecology before coming to Indiana State. His early background in philosophy and religion led him to develop this course on the ancient origins of the current political controversy surrounding biological evolution, “Scientific Creationism,” and “Intelligent Design.”
His work on the optical physics of the rattlesnake’s ability to “see” heat radiation was featured on a National Geographic Channel program. In his spare time (such as it is) he enjoys travel, wildlife photography, and flying his Cessna Skyhawk.
MWF 1:00 – 1:50
George.Bakken@indstate.edu