Natural Sciences, B.A.

Through the Natural Sciences concentration, students study natural science in its historical development as well as through the practice of science. This offers a deep understanding and appreciation of natural sciences as a human endeavor. Students start by studying the ideas of the very first recorded “scientists,” philosophers of the 6th century B.C. This is followed by encounters with original sources which introduce and investigate formulations about atoms, about the theory of evolution, about aggression among animals, about light and the theory of relativity. Eventually students move up to the study of quantum physics and molecular biology. Students come to understand and appreciate scientific thought, its methods and its limitations. During each of the courses we ask significant questions that link the sciences with the humanities. What things need to be explained? How are they explained? What does explanation mean? What is revealed about the nature of reality?

For additional programs and courses in this school, see Shimer Great Books School .