LibGuides: SC 230: History and Philosophy of Science: Home

About this Guide

This course surveys the historical development of scientific thought, primarily in the western tradition, from its origins in ancient Greece to the twentieth century. While the course does examine major figures and their scientific achievements, it does not do so in the context of “science as the inevitable march from primitivism to progress,” i.e. science as the continuous accumulation of knowledge and mastery of the natural world. Rather these events will be studied in the context of the prevailing worldview or philosophical paradigm which provided the framework for scientific inquiry and discovery in various cultural periods. As such particular attention will be given to the interplay between philosophical-religious and scientific ideas.

Information on SC230 taken from course syllabi created by Dr. James Enns.

Primary and Secondary Sources

In SC230 your research paper requires the use of primary and secondary sources, so what is the difference? Streefkerk (2018) on Scribbr describes it this way:

Primary sources provide raw information and first-hand evidence. Examples include interview transcripts, statistical data, and works of art. [Other examples include letters, diaries, newspaper articles, photographs, and official records]. A primary source gives you direct access to the subject of your research.
Secondary sources provide second-hand information and commentary from other researchers. Examples include journal articles, reviews, and academic books. A secondary source describes, interprets, or synthesizes primary sources. (Streefkerk, 2018, para. 1-2)

Primary sources may provide more trustworthy evidence than secondary sources, but good historical research includes both.

Streefkerk, R. (2018). Primary vs secondary sources. https://www.scribbr.com/citing-sources/primary-and-secondary-sources/

Open Access Resources on the Web

The following open access links provide resources recommended by Dr. Enns.

Internet History Sourcebooks
The Internet Modern History Sourcebook has been developed by the History Department of Fordham University, New York to serve as a source for college survey course.
Crash Course: History of Science
Hank Green, an ecologist and vlogger has created a series of twelve minute videos entitled: Crash Course: History of Science. Each episode provides a snapshot in the major shifts in philosophy within science, as well as introducing scientists and their discoveries.

Crash Course: History of Science

History and Philosophy of Science (SC230) Overview

Our library collection has several resources that provide an overview of the History of Science. Here are some that may be useful as you choose or refine your topic. Each item links to the corresponding record in the library catalogue.