Bad Science at the Movies

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SCNCE-200

This course uses modern media as a springboard to discuss concepts in introductory geology and to debunk common myths in Earth and environmental science, ranging from science that is just plain wrong to science that is cutting-edge and controversial. We will view a variety of popular and classic films (e.g. The Day After Tomorrow, Armageddon, Volcano, The Core, Jurassic Park, Earthquake!, Dante's Peak) as a framework for discussions on topics of global perspective, including volcanology, astronomy, paleontology, climate change, and environmental science. We will also discuss the nuances of entertainment-as-education and examine the role of film in science and general education in this country and globally. Class discussions will be supplemented with hands-on exercises, from learning basic principles of mineralogy to fossil identification to simulated asteroid impacts. The class will also examine current ideas in pseudoscience where students will use their new skills to detect and debunk popular scientific myths, ranging from young Earth creationism to global warming skepticism.