Course Description - BIS 388

                                                        Winter 2005

BIS 388 The Philosophy and Science of Quantum Mechanics

  (Charles F. Jackels)

          The theory of quantum mechanics is arguably the most significant scientific development of the twentieth century.  Much of contemporary technology (e.g. computers, CD’s, etc.) depends directly on quantum mechanics, and its concepts have even gained prominent roles in popular culture, especially science fiction literature and movies.  In this course we will explore the basic scientific and philosophical concepts of quantum mechanics within the context of its historical development.  Our goal will be to gain an understanding of both the scientific method and the general principles of quantum mechanics.  Particular attention will be focused on the relationship between observation, concept, and theory and the evolution of that relationship in twentieth-century physics.  We will also explore the philosophical implications of duality, uncertainty, and complementarity, which are inherent to modern physics.    The applications of quantum mechanics to be discussed will include: radioactivity, nuclear power, photosynthesis, stellar evolution, microelectronics, cryptography, quantum computing, and even time-travel and parallel worlds.

          It is not expected that students enrolled in this course will have had college level courses in either physics or chemistry.  The course content will include those aspects of classical and modern physics necessary to support a conceptual understanding of quantum mechanics.  BIS388 satisfies the STE distribution requirement.