The Atomic Age

Catalog description

This course provides an overview of how the emergence of nuclear science (and the catastrophic consequences of its military use on Japan to end the Second World War) marked the beginning of an Atomic Age. How is it that the world's greatest scientific thinkers could produce a technological innovation capable of destruction on a global scale? From August 1945 forward, no longer could one draw simple connections between "science" and "progress." And yet nuclear developments continued to shape every aspect of human existence: from international diplomacy and energy policy to the "nuclear family" and popular culture. Drawing on scientific discourse, world history, international relations theory, Cold War studies, policy analysis, energy and environmental studies, and gender and cultural studies, this course explores the multiple ways in which we continue to live in an Atomic Age. Prerequisite(s): ENG0001 or placement, ENG1020 or ENG1024 , sophomore status. Offered at Providence 3 Semester Credits