Humanities & Science (HAS) 2010: open weeks
Here is the list of the school’s weeks that are open to external auditors:
July 19-23: The History of the Relationship between Science and Religion
With the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin last year, the media reminded (imposed) us of the need to separate science from faith! But this radical opposition from the media between evolution and creationism is but the tip of the iceberg. Human beings have always tried to establish a relationship between the material and the spiritual. Let’s just take Pilate: “what is truth?” What are the foundations of a scientific truth and a spiritual truth? Upon what grounds do we establish, or not, a link between these truths? The history answer is linked with the history of the sciences, of technology, of the development of peoples (or ethnic groups), of ecology, of medicine, etc. For instance, what are the foundations for a “yes” or for a “no” in regards to an alternative medicine?
Teacher: Pierre Amey
August 1-13: Water Technology Seminar
This seminar is prepared to equip you with classroom and on-site training in water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. These include water project assessment, household water treatment methods, basic hygiene education, water project development, and other appropriate water technology skills. By training and working with the our staff, you will be prepared to address the water needs developing communities. You will find ways to work with others on practical, sustainable, and affordable solutions that can be applied immediately to the water needs in these contexts.
Trainers: Richard Leakey and Sébastien Cottier
August 23-27: History of the exact sciences (astronomy, mathematics and physics)
For a deeper understanding of what science is and how it functions, it is very instructive to investigate its history. Starting back in Mesopotamia in the third millennium BC, it shall be shown how number systems, mathematics and astronomy/astrology developed. These sciences were embedded into the so-called “Mesopotamian Wisdom” and have to be interpreted within this context. Since long time, the history of sciences has recognized that science depends on the cultural realm of experience of its time (”Kultureller Erfahrungsraum”). Starting from the Babylonian astronomy and followed by examples from ancient Greece through the middle ages and up to the 17th century, the close interaction between astronomy and world view shall be investigated. — Finally we discuss the new developments
of physics in the early 20th century, which revolutionized the world view not only of scientists but of all mankind.
Teachers: Prof. Dr. Lis Brack-Bernsen and Prof. Dr. Matthias Brack.
Aug 31-Sept 4: The Gifts of God in History
During this week we will delve into the thoughts, ideas, moments, and people that have shaped our world over the last two millennia. This will give us panoramic view of our History from the birth of Jesus through to today. Ed Sherman will also give special attention to the development and spread of the gospel throughout the world. As acting Dean of the College of Humanities and International Studies in the University of the Nations, Ed Sherman brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding on the history of the world and the church.
Teacher: Ed Sherman
The costs for each week are:
• 200.– CHF for the lecture
• 180.– CHF for the accomodation and food
