Taught by: Dr. John D. Mertens, Associate Professor of Engineering

This seminar will examine human descriptions of reality, past and present, from a primarily scientific viewpoint. What is the value of these models of reality? To predict events? To explain the meaning of the universe? To improve the quality of life? The course will cover a broad spectrum of the aspects of reality, including such things as the nature of matter, the laws that govern the universe, the relationship between perspective and reality, and how one's perception of spirituality and consciousness may affect one's description of reality. The seminar will also examine methodologies developed by modern engineers to use models of reality to solve problems, and the impact that this has had on society. Students will read books and view videos from a wide variety of areas, including science, engineering, philosophy, psychology, and fiction (including science fiction). Students will perform research on particular topics related to reality and present their views and findings in class discussions, writings, and class presentations. Students will also work both independently and in groups on design projects aimed at understanding modern problem solving techniques.