Origins and Meaning · Physics
Philosophical foundations and implications of the most important discoveries and theoretical developments in Physics. Got exposure to interesting writings by philosophers, physicists, logicians, mathematicians, linguists, neuroscientists, etc.
I learned about areas of physics such as thermodynamics, relativity and quantum mechanics, as well as to think about things like language, religion and art from a more science-y viewpoint; lastly, I learned how these topics inform our concepts of meaning, transcendence and how to live a good life.
The origins of the universe, quantum mechanics, the meaning of life.
By looking at the origins of matter, life, and creativity, we discussed how the reductionist perspectives of science are incompatible with free will, but this does not necessarily mean that life is meaningless.
I learned about why and how the universe exists and functions as it does.
I learned so much it's hard to put into words. Professor Greene is inspiring and he does a fantastic job at merging science and philosophy in a truly interesting, engaging, and thought-provoking way. The course materials were all mind-blowingly interesting, and varied from poetry, short stories, science chapters, and films. His lectures were never boring. I am actually starstruck by him - his intellect amazes me.
A complete reductionist account of the history of the universe, from its origins to its eventual end. Complex concepts of physics, including special and general relativity and quantum mechanics. The origin of life on Earth, the nature of consciousness, and the role that narrative, art, and religion play in our lives. How to find meaning in a vast, cold, and passionless universe.
I learned about a certain framework for combining different perspectives on the development of consciousness, our physical world, and theories about the former. The framework is Greene's own, and although it is supplemented by secondary sources, it is very much a selective framework (something that he is honest about in every class). I did not gain any skills from this course beyond and ended up paying more attention to the style of the course and its flaws/strengths rather than the course content. I learned maybe a bit more how to approach separating fields and perspectives, but honestly, not much beyond that.
- invaluable lessons about finding meaning in an absurd universe
I am not a science person AT ALL but this course was fun, interesting and one does not need to be a science person to enjoy and get something out of this course!