Why should classics be used in the field of Science?

     When we think of "classic" literature, we by default contemplate their value in the disciplines of history, literature, and art in the field of education.  However, to teach in the field of science using the classic model while using classical works and original source documents we need to first define what is "classical" in the field of science.

     The classic approach to science is entrenched in the ability to think critically.  When we attempt to define critical thinking we think of the characteristic of diligence that science represents, which is an important part of research.  However, research and the connection to diligence, which are important traits in science, are all established on the quest for excellence through reason and rationale, which is the classical aspect of science. 

     The classical model of education uses the traditional values of Greek and Roman cultures and their cultural value placed on the importance of critical thinking in order to teach science.  Classics in science represent the works of the finest thinkers that Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and many other disciplines within science can produce and contribute to our understanding of science in the natural world.  

     Examples of classics in science are Darwin (Natural Selection), Newton (Laws of Motion), Watson and Crick (DNA), Thompson and Rutherford (Atomic Theory), Democritus (The Atom), Galileo (Astronomy), De Vinci (Anatomy), Einstein (Physics), and Hubble (Astronomy). When the educator in science uses classic literature in the classroom in the form of original source documents, the scholar has the benefit of reading the "unfiltered" work from the individual.  When the scholar in the classroom has the opportunity to read and process complex ideas, hypothesis, data, and research the scholar has been provided with an example of critical thinking which is in keeping with the current philosophy of "Classical Education" and the scholar has an example to follow regarding science. Which means a quality classic can help foster the growth of the individual through modeling and "mentoring" what it means to be a scientist of the highest quality.

Special Guest Teacher Blogger,

Jason C. M. Turner, M.BS., M.ed.

Mr. Turner teaches Earth Science, Honors Biology, Honors Anatomy, Chemistry and AP Chemistry here at John Adams Academy