In this module, Professor Melissa Brown examines the historical context and consequences of Social Darwinism, critiquing its misapplications and exploring new perspectives on social evolution.
Key topics include:
This session invites participants to rethink the implications of Darwin's work in the social realm.
The introductory module sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Darwin's legacy. Led by Professor William Durham, this session provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure and objectives.
Professor Robert Siegel discusses "Darwin's Own Evolution," highlighting how Darwin's ideas have evolved over time. Following this, Professor Durham presents "Darwin's Data," revealing the scientific foundations of Darwin's theories.
The session concludes with an engaging panel discussion moderated by Dr. Lynn Rothschild, allowing participants to pose questions and discuss insights related to Darwin's work.
In this module, Dr. Eugenie Scott delves into the contentious debate between evolution and creationism. Through a rigorous analysis of both perspectives, she presents a compelling argument in favor of evolutionary science.
The session highlights:
The module concludes with a panel discussion featuring Brent Sockness and Jeff Wine, providing participants with a platform to engage with the topic further.
Dr. Janet Browne provides an in-depth biography of Charles Darwin, exploring his life, influences, and the context in which he developed his groundbreaking work, "On the Origin of Species."
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The module concludes with a panel discussion featuring Craig Heller and Robert Proctor, allowing for further exploration of Darwin's impact on both science and society.
Dr. Daniel Dennett tackles the philosophical implications of Darwin's theory of evolution, examining how it reshapes our understanding of life, consciousness, and human existence.
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The session is rounded off with a panel discussion featuring Hank Greely and Chris Bobonich, encouraging participants to engage with these profound questions.
Peter and Rosemary Grant present their research on the mechanisms of speciation, discussing how and why species multiply in response to environmental changes.
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The module concludes with a panel discussion featuring Carol Boggs and Rodolfo Dirzo, providing a platform for further exploration of these critical topics.
Dr. Niles Eldredge provides an engaging discussion on Darwin's life, his significant contributions to the field of evolutionary biology, and the lasting impact of his work on modern science.
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The module concludes with a panel discussion featuring Ward Watt and Liz Hadly, allowing for a rich dialogue about Darwin's continuing relevance in todayâs scientific discussions.
In this module, Professor Melissa Brown examines the historical context and consequences of Social Darwinism, critiquing its misapplications and exploring new perspectives on social evolution.
Key topics include:
This session invites participants to rethink the implications of Darwin's work in the social realm.
Dr. Paul Ewald discusses the evolution of pathogenic viruses and their role in cancer research, particularly how they interact with the body's cells to promote cancer development.
This module delves into:
The module concludes with a panel discussion featuring Gary Schoolnik and Stanley Falkow, encouraging dialogue about the implications for medical research.
Dr. Russell Fernald explores the effects of social behavior on brain function in various species, including fish, animals, and humans, particularly in relation to mating behaviors.
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The session concludes with a panel discussion featuring Eric Knudsen and Charles Junkerman, fostering dialogue on the connections between behavior and brain function.
Dr. Levine analyzes Darwin's literary contributions, highlighting the poetic elements of his prose and the deep connections he perceived between humanity and the natural world.
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The module wraps up with a discussion between Dr. Levine and Rob Polhemus, offering participants a chance to reflect on the enchantment of Darwin's literary legacy.