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Module 7 – History of Science: Egypt and Babylon

Introduction

We continue 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 second module, we study the theologies of ancient Egypt and Babylon. 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 Egypt and Babylon.
  • 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

Feedback
  • Review any comments from the professor.
Lecture

Readings
  • Jaki, Science and Creation, Chapter 4: “The Shadow of Pyramids” and Chapter 5: “The Omen of Ziggurats.”
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 Egypt and Babylon. 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