Knowledge/Power/Practice in Science, Technology, and Medicine

3 credits · Graduate credit

The graduate seminar provides a comprehensive introduction to the major themes and issues in the field of Science and Technology Studies (STS, or S&TS). Drawing on scholarship in history, sociology, anthropology, and information studies, we will mix theoretical material with more empirically oriented studies. The course will focus particularly on the relation between social, political, and cultural contexts and the development of ideas, practices, tools, and objects within science, technology, and medicine. While some background in science, technology and/or medicine is helpful, this course does not require prior training in the field. Work for the seminar will include reading approximately 300 pages per week.