Alan H McGowan - Additional Information

The Science and Politics of the Atom Bomb

The course examines the exciting science that led to the discovery of fission and finally to the atom bomb. It also examines the fraught question of whether the bomb actually did shorten the war in the Pacific in 1945.

Renewable Energy

An examination of sources of energy considered renewable and non-fossil, such as solar energy, both photovoltaic and thermal, wind, biomass, geothermal, and including a consideration of nuclear energy. The course also considers the role of energy conservation in fueling the United States totally with non-fossil fuel sources.

Environment and Society

A survey course examining environmental issues and their connection to the society at large.

Genes and Race

This course critically examines the notion that race is a genetic concept. It also critically examines issues of racial diseases, It also includes brief histories of genetics and of the concept of race itself.

Additional Information

Website for "The Political Activism of Anthropologist Franz Boas, Citizen Scientist

This book chronicles the life and political action of Franz Boas, a ground-breaking anthropologist whose work denied the notion of racial superiority and introduced the notion of cultural relativity. In addition, he was a fierce pacifist who opposed the entry of the United States into World War I, and organized a powerful organization protecting the free speech of those accused of left-wing sympathies. He was among the first to recognize the strength of a scientist speaking out on political issues. The book will appeal to those interested in issues of race relations and free speech, and those interested in the role of science and scientists in the larger society.

Combating Science Denial

In this interview I discuss a number of topics, including climate change and science denial.

Alan-CV-April-2023.doc (48.5 KB)

Publications.docx (17 KB)

Environment Magazine, where I serve as an Executive Editor. Click on the image to be taken to the web site.

List of Publications (16.3 KB)

The Bermuda Institute for Ocean Sciences, where I serve as a member of the Board and the Executive Committee. Click on the image to be taken to the web site.

Additional Information

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