The Misuse of Scientific Information in American Life

Many important political issues hinge on matters of science or technology. But most Americans are ill-equipped to assess these matters. As a result, we are vulnerable to spin when scientific information is distorted, cherry-picked or otherwise misused to advance financial, political or even religious goals. This course examines ways these phenomena skew public discussion of climate change, vaccine safety, the teaching of evolution, cancer screening, GM food and a host of other issues. Enrollment limited to 19 first year students.