FYSM 122 - Making and Breaking Ciphers:Classical and Modern Cryptology

Institution:

Trinity College

Subject:

Description:

How did Julius Caesar secretly communicate with his generals How were the British able to eavesdrop and pinpoint the position of the German U-boats Is online shopping really safe How does modern cryptology (the study of ciphers) protect the privacy of our personal information and communications From ancient times through our present Internet age, cipher makers have been engaged in a fierce rivalry with cipher breakers. During WWII Allied cryptographers were able to read German ciphers, thereby hastening the end of the war. Today, our ability to encrypt credit-card numbers and other personal information is essential for online commerce. In this seminar, we will take an historical approach to learning the foundations of both classical and modern cryptology. We will also address social and ethical implications of modern cryptology. In addition to readings, writings, and discussions, students will also develop their problem-solving skills by testing their cipher-making and cipher-breaking skills against their classmates. 1.00 units, Seminar

Credits:

1.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.Trincoll.edu

Phone Number:

(860) 297-2000

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Semester

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