Department Contact:
Coordinators: Dr. Lori Woods
Program Description:
How did we come to understand science, medicine and the body the way we do? What does it mean to be a scientist or medical practitioner today? Is there anything to be learned from past understandings or interpretations of the natural world? This minor seeks to demonstrate that being a scientist today requires an understanding of the historical and philosophical principals that serve as the foundation of modern science. Science and the humanities are not separate entities, but are linked in ways that actually make them inseparable.
Students today, especially those who major in the sciences or health sciences, tend to view science and medicine as isolated apart from historical, philosophical, and cultural contexts. The science and humanities minor will prepare students to face ethical challenges as thoughtful, responsible, and humane individuals, in the spirit of Franciscan education. Exposure to the role of science within the framework of the humanities will also promote original thinking with regard to professional problem-solving skills. Since students with such exposure will develop increased capacities for broad critical thinking, generating ideas, and making connections with the world around them, this minor will serve a broad population of students.
Student Learning Outcomes:
The History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine minor will:
- Prepare students to face ethical challenges as thoughtful, responsible, and humane individuals, in the spirit of Franciscan tradition;
- Promote original thinking with regard to professional problem-solving skills by exposing students to the role of science within the framework of the humanities.
Total Credits Required:
18 credits
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