Myths, Martians, and Monsters: Archaeology and Pseudoscience (FYS)
ARCP 150F
Fall 2024
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01
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This FYS will explore fantastic claims about the human past by critically examining pseudoarchaeological claims and comparing them with the actual archaeological record. Emphasis will be placed on the scientific method, critical thinking, and media literacy. We will discuss well known myths, frauds, and misinformation, both past and present, including Atlantis, Ancient Aliens, Piltdown Man, Ancient Apocalypse, the Moundbuilder Myth, and their use and misuse. By the end of the course, students will be able to differentiate reproducible scientific data from the fictitious and fabricated. Additionally, we will discuss the motivations, ethics, and consequences of sensationalized accounts of the human past. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS ARCP |
| Course Format: Seminar | Grading Mode: Student Option |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Major Requirement for: None |
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Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available |
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