Asian Civilisations & Science (Science3)

Subject 136-311 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbookSearch for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2008.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: A 1-hour lecture followed by a 90 minute tutorial per week
Total Time Commitment: *
Prerequisites: Two second-year HPS subjects.
Corequisites: *
Recommended Background Knowledge: *
Non Allowed Subjects: *
Core Participation Requirements: *

Coordinator

Assoc Prof Helen Verran
Subject Overview:

This subject examines the development of science as a cultural phenomenon in Asian contexts. It is taught through contemporary and historical case studies. We examine ways sciences 'came to life' in particular places at particular times as modern Asian endeavours. Examining particular instances, students will better understand contemporary sciences as a global phenomenon. Studies will reveal some of the characteristics and properties of the scientific enterprise in contemporary and historical Asian contexts.

Assessment: Three essays of 2000 words each 33% (the first due in week 7; the second in week 11; the third at the end of the examination period).
Prescribed Texts: A subject reader will be available for purchase from the University Bookshop.
Recommended Texts:

The Hungry Tide (Useful pre-reading: A Ghosh), Harper Collins 2004

Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • develop skills in written and oral communication;

  • conduct independent research;

  • make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

  • form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.
Notes:

Students enrolled in the BSc (pre-2008 BSc), or a combined BSc course (except for the BA/BSc) will receive science credit for the completion of this subject.

This subject is available only to science students for credit at third year level. This subject is based on 136-211 but involves additional work.

Download PDF version.