Jessica Riskin is a renowned historian of science, currently serving as a professor at Stanford University. Her work focuses on the intersection of science, technology, and society, with a particular emphasis on the history of scientific inquiry and its relationship to human values. Riskin's research and teaching at Stanford are driven by a passion for understanding the complex and often surprising ways in which science has shaped our world.
Academic Background and Interests
Riskin’s academic background is rooted in the history of science, with a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. Her dissertation, which explored the concept of “science” in 18th-century France, laid the foundation for her future research interests. At Stanford, Riskin has developed a range of courses that explore the history of science, from the Renaissance to the present day. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding the social, cultural, and historical contexts in which scientific knowledge is produced.
Research Focus: The Intersection of Science and Society
Riskin’s research focuses on the ways in which science has been shaped by, and has in turn shaped, human society. She is particularly interested in the history of scientific inquiry, and the ways in which scientists have sought to understand the natural world. Riskin’s work has explored a range of topics, including the history of experimentation, the development of scientific instruments, and the role of science in shaping modern society. Her research has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Pierre-Simon Laplace Prize from the French Academy of Sciences.
| Research Area | Specific Focus |
|---|---|
| History of Science | 18th-century France, scientific inquiry, experimentation |
| Science and Society | Relationship between science and human values, science policy |
| Scientific Instruments | Development of telescopes, microscopes, and other scientific instruments |
Teaching Philosophy and Courses
Riskin’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the history of science. Her courses at Stanford are designed to engage students from a range of backgrounds, from history and philosophy to physics and biology. Riskin’s courses explore topics such as the science of the Renaissance, the history of experimentation, and the relationship between science and society. Her teaching has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Stanford University Dean’s Award for Distinguished Teaching.
Course Offerings
Riskin’s course offerings at Stanford include:
- HISTORY 201: The Science of the Renaissance
- HISTORY 202: The History of Experimentation
- HISTORY 203: Science and Society
These courses provide students with a deep understanding of the historical context of scientific inquiry, and the ways in which science has shaped our world. By exploring the complex relationships between science, technology, and society, students gain a nuanced appreciation for the role of science in modern society.
What is the focus of Jessica Riskin's research at Stanford?
+Riskin's research focuses on the intersection of science, technology, and society, with a particular emphasis on the history of scientific inquiry and its relationship to human values.
What courses does Jessica Riskin teach at Stanford?
+Riskin teaches a range of courses at Stanford, including The Science of the Renaissance, The History of Experimentation, and Science and Society.
What is Jessica Riskin's teaching philosophy?
+Riskin's teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the history of science, and the need to engage students from a range of backgrounds.
In conclusion, Jessica Riskin’s work at Stanford is driven by a passion for understanding the complex and often surprising ways in which science has shaped our world. Through her research and teaching, Riskin provides students and scholars with a nuanced appreciation for the history of scientific inquiry, and the ways in which science has been shaped by, and has in turn shaped, human society.
