Introduction
In this second section, we are going to explore the history of science from ancient cultures to modern times. Because we are spanning such a vast time, think of this as an overview, like if you were standing on a hill surveying the landscape by focusing certain points across it. In this first module, we start with the theologies of ancient India and China. The goal is to understand their religious world views, so you can compare them to the biblical and Christian world view. We are studying the history to gain perspective when communicating the theology of science to peers. Fr. Jaki reviews these cultures and religions in Science and Creation: From Eternal Cycles to an Oscillating Universe.
Module Objectives
Student will be able to:
- State the world view of ancient India and China.
- Explain how their religious and cosmic world views are alike and different.
- List scientific accomplishments and skills in these cultures.
- Compose a brief essay.
Assignments
Lecture
For additional explanation, see this lecture given at the University of Toronto Newman Centre.
Feedback
- Review any comments from the professor.
Readings
- Jaki, Science and Creation, Chapter 1: “The Treadmill of Yugas,” and Chapter 2: “The Lull of Yin and Yang.”
Essay
Compose a brief critical thinking (500-word minimum) essay to respond to these prompts:
- Write one paragraph each to state the world view of ancient India and China. 40 points
- Write one detailed paragraph each to list the scientific accomplishments and skills in these cultures. 40 points
- Content (see rubric) 10 points
- Expression (see rubric) 10 points
