Program Curriculum

Someone who is conversant across the entire range of human knowledge, from science to philosophy and technology to literature. Baylor's summer Renaissance Scholar Program will get you started on the path to take the first steps toward joining the ranks of the great scholars of the past. We will consider various issues, of both historical and contemporary interest, viewing these from the perspective of science, technology, engineering, literature, philosophy, theology, and even contemporary film - a profound and hugely influential medium of artistic expression.

How will the study of literature and engineering be combined?

Through Discussion: We will focus on the theory and practical application of scientific and engineering concepts such as the harnessing of energy and the mythical stories that have inspired such activity, the desire for exploration and the quest for knowledge, ranging from ancient tales of self-discovery to the modern exploration of the cosmos.

Through Hands-on Learning: Through the ages, society has strived to find meaning in life, to understand the world around us, and to use creativity and ingenuity to improve both. To complement your readings in the great texts of the world, you will be involved in the design, development, and implementation of engineering projects.

Humans have always played games. Both historical documents and anthropological evidence show that games are part of what it means to be human. Games have been played for entertainment, to pass time, and to improve mental and physical acuity. Today, many of the most popular games are played on computers. In some cases, these games are played against the computer; and in others, the opponent is located in some remote location. This summer, we will adapt an ancient game to this modern gaming environment - taking a simple board game that was played during the Middle Ages and adapting it to the digital computer. Issues of graphical representation, rule enforcement, and artificial intelligence will be addressed as students work to design, impellent, and test their version of a medieval game.

The success of ancient and modern societies alike is closely linked to their ability to harness energy. This is true whether that energy is in the form of domesticated plants and animals, the backs of slaves, fossil fuels, nuclear power, or renewable energies like solar, wind, and hydropower. Engineers in society study how to harness energy, but as part of society, they also have a duty to act responsibly. We will explore both ancient and modern energy generating techniques and explore the ups and downs of renewable energy and the impact on our society. As a representative artifact of ancient energy conversion, we will analyze and operate a medieval trebuchet. We will also explore the application of solar energy and wind power, and the future of these innovations.

Through Literature: All of this will be complemented by readings from ancient mythology (with stories from Homer, Virgil, Ovid and more); from the founders of modern science (Galileo, Bacon and Newton); from artists who deploy technology for humane and spiritual ends (Leonardo da Vinci); and from philosophical and theological critics of the project of the technological mastery of nature (such as Pascal). Students will read foundational works of literature, theology, and philosophy -- from Antiquity to the present -- in small, dynamic, seminar-style classes.

Through Film: Evening sessions will be devoted to viewing of films such as The Lord of the Rings and The Matrix and to discussions of the way these films treat technology and nature, modern alienation and the quest, philosophy and myth, as well as good and evil. Click below to listen to Honors College Dean Thomas Hibbs' lecture on The Matrix and to read his published review of The Lord of the Rings.

• The Matrix
• The Lord of the Rings