What Hikes and Darwin Can Teach You About People and Science

Elmira, NY (05/28/2021) — This is the third of seven First-Year Friday articles that will run every Friday through the end of June.

How has the natural environment and our approach to understanding that environment shaped our worldviews? What can we learn by observing the geology around us and how did the observation of the natural world lead to a fundamental change in the way we explore science? These questions and more are at the heart of two First-Year Seminar courses focused on science and its impact on society.

In the course, Hiking With a Geologist, taught by Trevor Browning, assistant professor of environmental science, students will get outside to see how humans and earth science shape our environment. Browning wants students to observe first-hand how geology subtly molds Earth's water and climate, influencing the distribution of plants and animals.

"This class is about how and why we care about nature, taught out in nature," said Browning. "Despite being locked inside most of the time we need to be outdoors. That's why we mimic the outdoors with artificial "sun" lights, ion fans, and salt rock lamps.

"While walking around the beautiful Southern Tier, students will explore firsthand the connection between the spiritual (why we enjoy nature) and the mechanical (how nature works). By the end of the course, students will blend science and human interest in nature to discover unique solutions to environmental and social problems."

In the course, After Darwin, taught by Daniel Kjar, associate professor of biology, students will investigate the complex relationship between science and western civilization. While scientific investigation has greatly expanded our knowledge of the world, there are groups that push back and reject scientific discoveries. Using Darwin's "The Origin of Species" as a benchmark, students will see how Darwin's publication set off chain reactions that reverberate today.

"After thousands of years of scientific stagnation, the advances in science that occurred during the 17th century and Darwin's book have fundamentally altered human societies," said Kjar. "While our understanding of the universe has increased exponentially, many people fight even the smallest changes, particularly those that do not reinforce strongly held beliefs. Exploring this conflict can help us understand and anticipate important current events like anti-vaccination efforts and anti-scientific attitudes in politicians."

Learn more about these programs and the Living Learning Communities in previous articles (see below links). Look for more First-Year Friday articles through June 25. This series serves as a guide to incoming EC students as they consider which courses to take and the Living Learning Community that best aligns with their own goals and aspirations.

PREVIOUS FIRST-YEAR FRIDAY ARTICLES:
Elmira College Programs Focus on Leadership From The Start
Planting the Seeds of Equity in Sustainable Living and Environmental Justice Course

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