The history of science presents important parallels to the histories of art and music. Inspired by common goals and values, research and teaching in the department considers the entire scope of science, from the ancient philosophies of alchemy, astrology, and humoral medicine, to the emergent modern sciences of aviation, botany, mathematics, and neuroanatomy.  The study of historical relationships between science and the arts explains the origins of modern thinking, and reinforces the social and intellectual roles and expectations of people living in the contemporary world.