NS 310 Science and Science Fiction Spring 2010

Tuesday May 18, 2010, 10:30-12:30

Closed notes, open book.

Rules: You are responsible for: all lectures since the midterm, that is, astronomy/astrophysics, cosmology, the Big Bang, evolution, genetics and cloning (you are also responsible for lectures on basic concepts in lectures #1-6); the novels Red Mars, Ringworld, and Brave New World. You may bring copies of those texts to class (annotations are okay).

There will be extra credit question(s) on Sleep Dealers and Gattaca. You do NOT need to bring a scantron or blue book.

I will not ask detailed biographical or specific historical questions.

The answers required will range from a few words to short (1 or 2 paragraph) essays. They will be similar to the questions on the midterm.

Sample questions:

* Describe at least two of the three pieces of evidence used to support the theory of the Big Bang.

* Is the Big Bang just a theory? Why or why not?

* Describe at least two pieces of evidence used to support Darwin’s theory of natural selection as the origin of new species.

* Discuss the sub-theme of evolution in Ringworld.

* Pick any one of the three novels (Red Mars, Ringworld, or Brave New World) and discuss the novel’s attitude towards science and / or technology.

* Brave New World clearly wrestles with the issue of biological determinism. What about Red Mars and Ringworld?

* In both Red Mars and Ringworld the “geography” loom large as symbols. Explain what you think they symbolize in both novels.

* Is the theory that DNA carries information for heredity "just a theory"? Why or why not? Is it any different from, say, the Big Bang, or from the theory of natural selection? Think carefully before you answer--if you try to answer "DNA has been proven" what do you mean by that?

* Is the expansion of the universe “just a theory?” Why or why not? Discuss.

* What is the difference between evolution (descent with modification over time) and natural selection?

* Why is reproductive cloning of mammals difficult?

* Do you ever eat clones for breakfast? Think carefully before answering.

CHECK BACK HERE – I MAY ADD FURTHER SAMPLE QUESTIONS.