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You want to understand more deeply why Greek science was such an important departure from the past. The readings and explorations this week will take you into some of the great writings of the classical period. Take advantage of the explorations to deepen your own understanding of the key questions and key assumptions that motivated the Greek natural philosophers.
Of particular concern should be an appreciation of Plato and Aristotle,and of the differences in the approaches that these two men came to represent in the study and understanding of nature.
Basic readings:
Read Plato's description of Socrates's allegory of the cave: The Cave (from The Republic).
Read Plato's description of Socrates's opinion of Natural Science, from The Phaedo. You should also read the several paragraphs describing the death of Socrates, if you've never read this).
There are many vehicles on the web for the further study of Greek Science, and Aristotle especially. One of these is a brief essay by a philosopher at George Masson University on Aristotle's Science, but there are many other possibilities - find a site or essay (use Google as a start -- and don't stop at Wikipedia!) that you think is useful and add it to your portfolio. .
When
you come to section, be prepared to discuss these readings from Plato. For your
portfolio, you should bring two or three paragraphs in which you reflect on how
the vision of science you find in Plato/Socrates is different from modern science.
How is it the same? Also be prepared to explain what you found in your web search
for additional material.