HONR 219Q Reading Response Questions

Feb. 10

Compare, contrast, and react critically to the Theistic and Anthropic Principles.

Theistic Principle: The Universe is the way it is in order that we exist.

Anthropic Principle: The properties of our universe must be suited for life in order for us to be here to observe it.

Note: This is not an either-or litmus test. While you might prefer one over the other, you don't have to. You can like both, or dislike both, so long as you thoughtfully justify your position.

Feb. 17

Succinctly express the known cosmological opinions of the assigned philosopher. Please find something beyond what is in the book where possible.

Emphasize what you find compelling, and critique what you find incredulous.

Come prepared to describe the opinions of your philosopher to your fellow students.

Feb. 24

Consider the arguments for and against both a geocentric and heliocentric cosmology. Identify one or two that you consider crucial and potentially decisive.

Pick ONE of Copernicus, Brahe, Kepler, and Gallileo and evaluate how persuasive you find the case they make on your chosen issue. Try to place your evaluation in the context of what was known then, not now.

Note the two steps: first you must familiarize yourself with the arguments, then pick those of interest & consequence.

You will need to find additional material beyond what is in the books; following the links on the assigned date is a good start.

Mar. 3

Compare and contrast the nature of Space according to Descartes and Newton.

Which of their attitudes more closely resembles your own?

Mar. 10

Midterm exam.

No reading response.

Mar. 17

Spring Break.

No reading response.

Mar. 24

Just back from spring break.

No reading response.

Mar. 31

Frequent misconceptions about modern cosmology are implicit in the questions

What is the Universe expanding into?

What was there before the beginning?

Consider these in the context of the Containment Principle.

Are these questions meaningful and well posed? How would you answer them?

Apr. 7

Historically, the cosmological constant has fallen in and out of favor. Currently it is very much in favor, being hailed twice in the past decade as the breakthrough of the year. Einstein called the cosmological constant his greatest blunder.

Should we rejoice at the current revival or fear that something is dreadfully wrong?

It is fair to consider the issue in an historical as well as scientific context. Indeed, what is your gut reaction?

Apr. 14

Inflation is said to solve the horizon and coincidence/flatness problems.

Do you feel that these are really problems in need of solution?

Why or why not?

Apr. 21

An overwhelming amount of evidence suggests that the visible mass does not add up to enough total mass in many extragalactic systems.

Possible explanations for these mass discrepancies include (1) dark matter and (2) modified gravity.

Philosophically, does (1) or (2) seem preferable? Why?

Apr. 28

Why does Tegmark argue that you must have a doppleganger in some very remote parallel universe?

Does this notion sit well with you? Make an argument to either support or refute this assertion.

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