Cosmology, Controversy, and the Difficult Birth of Modern Science
2007 Exploration Seminar in Siena, Italy

**THIS PROGRAM IS FULL AND NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS**

Program Director: Bruce Balick ~ Astronomy
Dates of Instruction: August 21 to September 15

Every culture in history, if not every person, has pondered the Universe, its origins, our place and time in it, and whether our existence is accidental or purposeful. We explore these issues largely from the scientific and historical perspectives. Half of the course describes the modern view of modern Big Bang Cosmology--what we know, how we know it---all at the introductory level. The other half of the course traces the influence of cultural biases and historical preconceptions that have shaped our historical understandings of the origin of the Universe. The critical and very controversial role of played by Galileo that opened the schism between science from religion is emphasized. Following his life and contributions will take us to on trips to Pisa, Florence, and the Vatican Observatory near Rome where we will meet with faculty, astronomers, and museum curators.

The course will be centered in Siena, one of the most glorious and history-rich of all of the Tuscan Renaissance cities, at the heart of Tuscany's most beautiful landscapes, and a town with extremely pleasant people and a very active social life. Florence, Arezzo, Pisa, the five Mediterranean villages called the Cinque Terra, and other cultural and artistic centers of the Renaissance are reachable within an hour. Official course excursions to Florence, Pisa, and the region near Rome are planned. The famous Palio horse race -- a relic of the medieval history of Sienese neighborhoods and a occasion of great revelry -- takes place in Siena the week before instruction begins (see http://www.dolcevita.com/travel/siena/intro.htm for more information about Siena). If shopping and sightseeing in Siena don't satiate your needs, then Florence is just a short bus ride away.

In addition to our course-related trips to Pisa, Florence, and the region near Rome, we will organize additional excursions to tour museums and other sights in Florence and Rome. The class schedule is arranged so that class typically ends at noon on Friday and resumes at 3 PM on following Monday, meaning that there is ample time for everyone to explore the delights of Italy on weekends. Of course, you are encouraged to exploit the temperate weather of late September after the class ends in order to extend your travels to elsewhere in Europe. Popular destinations with students have been the Alps, Munich (for Oktoberfest), Vienna, Prague, Amsterdam, Paris, and London.

Participants will receive 5 credits in: Astronomy (ASTRO 211), "The Universe and Change" (NW,QSR). There are no prerequisites. Acceptance into the course is based on a written application and interview. Classes will be taught in English. Italian language proficiency is not required, however an introductory Italian course before departure is highly recommended. Readings will include a biography of Galileo and several articles and book excerpts that will be provided on line or in hardcopy form. Grades are based on several homework assignments, an analytical term paper, and an occasional quiz. Participants should check with their academic advisors to determine how these credits may apply to major requirements.

Prof. Balick has lived in Rome and Florence. He taught a course similar to this one for the previous three summers. He and his wife Della try to assure that you will get the most enjoyable and exciting of all undergraduate experiences.

Student costs:  
$3,800 Program Fee
$200 IPE Fee
Additional costs include: Round trip airfare, meals, health insurance, and personal expenses.

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