HONR 252 - It'sAboutTime

Institution:

Randolph-Macon College

Subject:

Description:

"What, then, is time? I know well enough what it is, provided that no one asksme; but if I am asked and try to explain, I am baffled." - St.Augustine. Is time merely what clocks measure, or does it have meaning and substance of its own? Is my "now" the same as yours? Is yesterday real? Can we predict tomorrow? The mystery of time engages every area of human inquiry. In this exploration, we will concentrate on scientific understandings of time, but will also examine the philosophical, theological perspectives. Through readings, experiments, and discussion students will construct their own understanding of time and its meaning. Scientifically, we will pursue various ways of thinking about and measuring time, and the notions of space-time emerging from contemporary physics. We will also consider various ways of conceiving time in the history of religions, and the different perceptions of time expressed in the Bible. The course will culminate in a consideration of the nature of the future: does the flow of time carry us into a future that is already determined, or do our actions in the present shape an open future? Partially fulfills the Area of Knowledge requirement in the sciences (natural science with laboratory), and counts as a multidisciplinary course toward the CrossArea Requirement. Four Hours. Mr. Spagna.

Credits:

4.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.rmc.edu

Phone Number:

(804) 752-7200

Regional Accreditation:

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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