Many of the grand challenges facing the modern world have an underlying scientific and technological component. What basic physics should all future leaders know? And what science should all citizens understand? Stressing conceptual understanding and critical reasoning, this course aims to give students the physics background and habits of mind that will help them make informed decisions and cogent arguments on matters of public concern. Topics include: the physics of energy, climate change, the threat of nuclear materials and weapons, space exploration, and driverless cars and other emerging technologies. We will make use of basic high school level mathematics in our work. Not to be counted toward the major or to fulfill the entrance requirement for medical school.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 30

Prerequisites: Fulfillment of the Quantitative Reasoning (QR) component of the Quantitative Reasoning & Data Literacy requirement.

Distribution Requirements: MM - Mathematical Modeling and Problem Solving; NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences

Typical Periods Offered: Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Not Offered; Spring