Overview
During the 20th century, both the ideas and the contexts of physics changed dramatically. In this class we will study some of the changing ideas within modern physics, ranging from relativity theory and quantum mechanics to solid-state physics, nuclear and elementary particles, and cosmology. At the same time, we will situate these ideas within shifting institutional, cultural, and political contexts. The overall aim will be to understand the changing roles of physics and of physicists over the course of the twentieth century.
Assignments
As a HASS-CI (STS.042) and CI-M (8.225) Subject, there will be a heavy emphasis upon writing and oral communication. There will be three papers assigned for a total of 20-24 pages of writing over the course of the semester. The first paper (4-5 pp.) will be due in class in session #7. The second paper (6-7 pp.) will be due in class in session #14. Students will revise and resubmit their second papers, to give them an opportunity to work on specific writing skills before preparing the final paper; the paper 2 re-writes will be due in class in session #21. The final paper (10-12 pp.) will be due in class in session #26. Details of the paper assignments will be circulated in class. Students will also take turns making prepared oral presentations over the course of the semester. Presentations will involve a summary of assigned readings and presentation of study questions pertinent to that week's material. The student will then lead the ensuing class discussion, based on her or his opening presentation. In addition to these written and oral communication assignments, there will be an in-class midterm in session #12. No late papers will be accepted.
Grading
Written and oral communication performance will account for 75% of the final grade. Note that HASS-CI subjects fulfill Phase One of the MIT Writing Requirement for juniors and seniors. Students must receive a grade of B- or better in order to pass Phase One. Your final grade will be based on:
Paper 1 (20%);
Paper 2 (20%);
Paper 3 (25%);
Midterm (25%);
Participation in class discussions (including oral presentation) (10%).
Readings
Reading assignments should be completed before each lecture. The following books are required, in addition to course study materials:
McCormmach, Russell. Night Thoughts of a Classical Physicist. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1991.
Frayn, Michael. Copenhagen. New York: Anchor Books, 2000.
Badash, Lawrence. Scientists and the Development of Nuclear Weapons: From Fission to the Limited Test Ban Treaty, 1939-1963. Atlantic Highlands: Humanity Press, 1995.