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 investigate past and present methods of gaining knowledge in the physical 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 discuss the methods scientists use to gain knowledge that is as solid as possible.

This class is explicitly open for science & physics greenhorns as well as for quantum nerds!

Regular attendance and active participation in group discussions. (30%)

Each participant is asked to give a wrap-up (5 min) and provide a handout about one of the sessions. The handout is due to the date of the presentation. (30%)

Oral group exam or individual oral exam at the end of the term. (40 %)

Beginning with Nov. 25th, this course will take place via Zoom. Zoom-details have been shared with all registered participants, for further questions, please contact the instructor.

Due to updated Covid regulations, this course moves back to the lecture room starting with Dec. 16th.