The nineteenth century saw the origin of much of what we might identify as “modern” scientific and technological research and practice. Laboratories, factories explorations, empires – all had scientific significance and all were paramount in nineteenth century science. This is also perhaps the period which has enjoyed most sustained attention from historians of science. This course will give a critical introduction to some major themes of nineteenth century science, from a range of historical approaches.
Professor Joe Cain sometimes convenes this module and sometimes contributes sessions alongside other colleagues in UCL Department of Science and Technology Studies (STS).
Assessment
- 100% research paper (3000 words)
- 0% project proposal (formative)
Aims
This is a Masters-level module. HPSC0081 pursues several kinds of goals. First, this is a module about the history of science and technology. This includes not only the substance of science, but also the people, places, contexts and consequences that surround and help to shape the course of events. Time is strictly limited in this module, so we’ve made some choices about how to focus the curriculum.
Content aims are straightforward:
- identify key themes in 19thC science, both regarding content and historiography
- study this period in an integrated way, combining written sources, material artifacts, physical geography, and cultural geography
- while the focus is primarily on the British diaspora, this module will integrate some limited material from other contexts and geographies
The nineteenth century is a subject given considerable attention in English-speaking academic communities. The secondary literature is enormous. Another aim is to further develop the ability to assess interpretative work and relate evidence to interpretations.
Primary sources will make up some of the essential readings. The aim is to promote a direct encounter with the activity in this period. Students are expected to further develop their skills working with original source materials: critical reading of testimony and evidence, plus critical reflection on their interpretation and extension. They also will be expected to develop further research skills to integrate archives, museum collections, and digital resources.
Objectives
Knowledge
By the end of this module students should be able to:
- demonstrate key themes in 19thC science, both in content and historiography
- demonstrate an ability to research historical topics, including collecting and assessing primary sources, and relating primary sources to historiographical themes,
- demonstrate an ability to test historiographical arguments and develop relational points
- demonstrate professional-level research skills that integrate archives, museum collections, and digital resources
Transferrable and Key Skills
By the end of this module students should be able to:
- demonstrate the ability to critically interpret both primary and secondary sources
- demonstrate skill in historical reasoning and comparative analysis
- demonstrate skill collecting primary materials relevant to the 19thC
- relate geographic and architectural knowledge to other types of historical artifacts
- approach new material in this course’s domain from a historical perspective and with a critical historian’s eye
- demonstrate critical analysis of science communication and public engagement over a variety of venues
For more information about “Science in the Nineteenth Century”
Contact Professor Joe Cain.