Francesca Rochberg, “Empiricism in Babylonian Omen Texts and the Classification of Mesopotamian Divination as Science,” Journal of the American Oriental Society, Vol. 119, No. 4 (Oct. – Dec., 1999), pp. 559-569.

Discuss, Following Rochberg’s argument, what are the pitfalls or difficulties that one can encounter in exploring the history of science in the ancient world. How can we define ‘science’ to avoid them? What role does ‘observation’ play in Rochberg’sargument?  Are you generally convinced by her thesis?

Rochberg does a very good job in making her technical terminology accessible to us.  Still, it might require a bit of patience on your part to fully understand her argument–it is well worth the effort.  Also, in your responses to the questions above, use specific examples from her essay.

Looking for the best essay writer? Click below to have a customized paper written as per your requirements.