How have natural scientists and especially physicists gathered knowledge throughout the centuries? Why is reality in quantum physics not the way it seems in everyday life? And what role do the arts and a sense for the beauty play in discovering laws of nature? In this course we will discuss past and present methods of gaining knowledge in the natural sciences. The historical analysis of epistemology in science will be accompanied by philosophical and sociological considerations as well as gender reflections.

Evidently, quantity and quality of scientific knowledge has changed dramatically e. g. between Newton’s classical mechanics in the 17th century and the development of quantum mechanics or Einstein’s theory of general relativity in the 20th century. What was once established as a scientific fact has been revealed as a limited perspective. In this course, we will investigate the methods scientists use to gain knowledge that is as solid as possible. To accompany the theoretical analysis, an excursion into a quantum physics lab is projected.

Despite the emphasis on physics, everyone is welcome in this class, particularly those who have not felt a strong attraction to mathematics and physics – yet.

Each participant is asked to give a presentation on one of texts discussed in the class and provide a written summary about 5 pages. (60 %)

Regular attendance and active participation in the group discussions (40 %)

Extended deadline for paper submission: Feb 14th, 2020 (Please send your paper to me via e-mail.)

Last call for paper submission: March 14th, 2020

Students from other faculties or universities will be given a place on the course subject to room capacities.