The physicist Stephen Hawking once described scientists as “the bearers of the torch of discovery in our search for knowledge.” Across time, the social roles occupied–and dangers presented–by these torchbearers have undergone radical shifts. From the natural philosophers of Ancient Greece to the magicians of medieval Europe, what it means to understand and manipulate the natural world has changed dramatically.
In this Food For Thought module presented by Collegium Institute's Magi Project for Science & Theology, “Monster, Magician, Machine: The Scientist in History and Myth,” we will explore the various archetypes that the scientist has filled throughout history, and contemplate what our new technological age might mean for the future of science as a field of human inquiry.
Dates: Wednesdays, 5:45 - 7:00 PM. Dinner and readings will be provided.
October 21
October 28
November 4
November 11
November 18
Location: Harrison College House (Room M20), University of Pennsylvania
Registration: This program is open to all current undergraduate and graduate students.
Registration deadline: Friday, October 16