Wonders of Nature and Miracles of Medicine: Popularizing Science in Life Magazine, 1936-1972

Dr. Bert Hansen, Columbia graduate and professor of history at Baruch College of the City University of New York, will examine the role of LIFE magazine in shaping Americans’ ideas of science in the mid-20th century.  LIFE was one of the most popular magazines of its time; before television, only LIFE provided the general public with images that became so familiar they took on the status of icons. Using images from LIFE’s extensive photo archives, Prof. Hansen describes how the magazine presented science with a humane, yet materialistic outlook in which natural wonders and medical miracles prompted viewers’ awe, but with no suggestion of mystery, purpose, or spirituality.

The lecture is free and open to the public. A reception will follow.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010
6PM

RUSS BERRIE PAVILION, ROOM 1
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
1150 ST. NICHOLAS AVE. AT WEST 168TH ST.
NEW YORK, NY
Map: http://www.cumc.columbia.edu/about/cumc_map.html