How have humans understood the universe and our place in it, from ancient to modern times? Our readings will explore questions like this, from the perspective of several cultures.

In conjunction with the program Astronomy and Cosmologies, a limited number of students are invited to join our seminar to discuss the idea of cosmologies. We will study creation stories and worldviews, from those of ancient peoples to modern astrophysicists. We will all read the same seminar texts. Science Seminar students will read the same seminar texts as Astronomy and Cosmologies, but will do half the work—no math, half the class meetings, and a little more writing.

Students will work in teams to prepare for each seminar. Teams will post pre-seminar assignments online, and individuals will post essays (and responses to peers' essays) online. We will have two seminars per week. Our class meetings will be in person, and the online work will contribute importantly to our community-based learning.