The module is an introduction to the main themes of the history of science, with particular focus on the main traits of modern science as they emerge in the period of the (so called) Scientific Revolution (ca. 1450-1700). Following an interdisciplinary path, the module deals with the main issues of modern science, of its methods, limitations and of its social organization.
Making students understand that the history of scientific thought operates on a wide spectrum of cultural frequencies, both at the diachronic and synchronic level, and that its universe of investigation can include not only the historical development of the various "sciences", but also of both the theoretical, methodological and epistemological fields. Acquiring a solid knowledge of the history of scientific-philosophical thought from antiquity to the present day and a wide information on the current debate in the various fields of scientific research; mastering the different terminologies and methodologies relating to the analysis of problems, the methods of argumentation and the approach of texts (also in original language) and an appropriate approach to the use of bibliographical tools; possessing appropriate skills and tools for communication and information management.
The module aims to:
At the end of the module, students should be able to:
None. The course does not require any previous knowledge of the discipline
Teaching will take place face-to-face, and include lectures and student-led seminars. Students may request to attend classes online (live streaming via Teams) at the beginning of the module. Please contact the module coordinator for further particulars about online attendance.
The course is organized into thematic units:
Bibliography:
1. Mandatory bibliography for all students:
a) P. Govoni, Che cos'è la storia della scienza, Rome, Carocci.
b) A. Clericuzio, Uomo e natura. Scienza, tecnica e società dall’antichità all’età moderna, Rome, Carocci (Parts 2, 3, 4; pp. 115-451)
2. One text of choice between:
a) Tommaso Campanella, La città del Sole (any modern edition)
b) Francesco Bacone, La nuova atlantide (any modern edition)
3. One text of choice between:
a) M. Bucciantini, M. Camerota, F. Giudice, Il telescopio di Galileo. Una storia europea, Turin, Einaudi.
b) F. M. Snowden, Storia delle epidemie. Dalla morte nera al covid-19, Gorizia, LEG Edizioni.
c) A. Wulf, L'invenzione della natura. Le avventure di Alexander von Humboldt l'eroe perduto della scienza, Rome, Luiss University Press.
d) Franco Brevini, L'invenzione della natura selvaggia. Storia di un'idea dal XVIII secolo a oggi, Turin, Bollati Boringhieri.
[Exemptions: Attending students will have the option to replace the oral examination of one chosen text (lists 2 and 3) with an in-class presentation.]
Ricevimento: After classes during the teaching term, or by appointment: please write to dario.tessiciniATunige.it
DARIO TESSICINI (President)
DAVIDE ARECCO
Classes take place in the second term (mid-February til May)
The exam will assess the students' understanding of the content, and their ability to thinking critically and independently.
Oral exam in Italian or in English. Erasmus students only can replace the oral exam with a written essay of approximately 3,000 words. It is mandatory to agree on the topic with the teacher at least 30 days before submission. There are no formal deadlines, but marks will be registered during the exam periods only.
