SCHEDULE AND NOTES

Topic 1: Introduction

Topic 2: The Constitution of Life

Topic 3: Historical Thought on Extraterrestrial Life

Topic 4: Modern Thought on Exterrestrial Life

Topic 5: Candidate Worlds for Alien Life

Topic 6: The Drake Equation

Topic 7: The Fermi Paradox

Topic 8: The Rare Earth Hypothesis

Topic 9: The Anthropic Principle

FILMS

"Cosmos"

"Contact"

WEB

BBC: The Evolution of Man

ASSIGNMENTS

6,000 word 'Amundsen Rule' Paper, Topical Reader Responses (5)

DESCRIPTION

Arthur C. Clarke said, "There are two possibilities: either we are alone in the universe or we are not. Both are equally terrifying." This course takes a look at the probabilities of life elsewhere in the cosmos. and links the findings to humanity's future as a space-faring civilization. This course includes a 6,000 word writing requirement. A grade of 2 or higher must be attained. 18 class hours.

READING LIST

Drake, Frank, "Is there Anybody out there?"

OBJECTIVES

• Learn as much as possible about the history of our civilization and your place within it
• Spread your understanding to other people who would otherwise never encounter it
• Begin to see the world around you as a place you can make a difference in

GRADING

Reader Responses (5): 25%, Midterm: 25%, Research Paper: 25%, Final: 25%.