Physical science teaches us how the world around us works. It provides the theoretical framework for understanding the environment in which we live. To understand the principles of physical science is to understand how our planet operates, and how our lives do, as well.

In this course, our objective is to understand and apply the principles of physical science as practically as possible. Specifically, we want to explore ways in which fundamental laws impact our own lives.

To that end, we will focus in this course on practical application. Unlike a traditional physics course loaded with equations and experiments, we will take a more pragmatic approach. My hope is that at the end of this course you will have a better understanding of physical science, not as a "lab" discipline, but as you encounter it every day.

Having said that, the study of physical science still requires a concentrated effort. We have chosen as a course book "Six Easy Pieces," by Richard Feynman, one of the leading minds in physics and, as the title indicates, "...Its Most Brilliant Teacher." We use this book because Dr. Feynman has a great gift for boiling incredibly complex concepts into digestible bits.

To excel in this course, you will need to read Feynman carefully. It will probably be necessary to read each reading assignment at least twice. But the reward is great, as our applications will hopefully bring the world of physical science home to you in a powerful way.

I hope you enjoy this course.

PK