In physics, light possesses a double nature: it is both a necessary requisite for scientific inquiry as well as an object of research itself. Historically, most controversial theories on light have been presented, famously resulting in the development of quantum mechanics in the early 20th century. According to quantum theory, light exhibits a wave-particle duality, which gives rise to manifold epistemological issues. 

In modern physics, light appears to be strongly linked to the concept of time as highlighted in Einstein's theory of special relativity. In this course we will discuss contemporary concepts of light and time in science with a particular emphazis on modern physics, as well as philosophical, societal, and economical consequences.