These themes are developed through an examination of the issues surrounding the computer modeling of global climate change. Participants must be highly motivated self-starters interested in working on topics outside their areas of competence, and comfortable in outdoor settings. Whatever their major, student must have had a course in both the physical sciences and philosophy, and be willing to learn from and teach others. Applications from students in physics, atmospheric sciences, philosophy, and public policy are especially welcome. It uses experience in and nuanced reflection upon ongoing scientific research to create a learning and research community among physical scientists, social scientists, and humanists.
Scientific research plays a profound role throughout our society.
Our project's fundamental claim is that it is crucial for all scholars and citizens to have a deep appreciation of the power and limits of scientific knowledge for the resolution of societal problems. The program is directed jointly by Dr. Robert Frodeman, a philosopher at the Center of the American West, University of Colorado and by Dr. Mark Bullock, a planetary physicist at Southwest Research Insitute. Its goal is to introduce a group of undergraduates in the physical sciences, humanities, and social sciences to the constellation of perspectives surrounding the use of numerical climate models. Students will gather and evaluate scientific data and investigate the social, political, psychological, economic, and philosophical issues surrounding the interpretation and use of these data for addressing contemporary controversies over global climate change. Twelve undergraduates per year will come to Boulder, Colorado for eight weeks.