Honors Program Science Sequence for non-science majors

This sequence covers the basic scientific principles in physics, chemistry, geology, and biology, including those principles which govern natural environmental systems. It is a year-long sequence which satisfies the core science requirements and the University's Environmental Literacy requirement.

Each Fall the class has a field trip to Sapelo Island or Skidaway Island where the students observe and study the biology, geology, physics, and chemistry of the tides, the wind, the land, the sun, and how the various life forms depend on each other and interact with the environment. In addition to the study of the principles of science, the course delves into science-related issues such as science and culture, ethical issues, the philosophy of science, science and religion, environmental issues, and the politics of science.

Topics in these discussions include:

• A more dynamic and integrated vision of nature and of man's role as the supreme observer and shaper of the material world
• An appreciation of the limits of science as well as the beauty of science
• The awe and reverence that a scientist must bring to a study of the world in the realization that a full understanding of nature requires a "sense of the holy"
• Concern about our destruction of habitats and the resulting extinction of thousands of species "The Tragedy of the Commons"
• Practical topics such as beach erosion and public policy, desertification and agricuture, geologic hazards

This course is probably unique on this campus in providing in one integrated course both rigorous science content and discussion of social issues and how these relate to each other.