This course is about (i.) the production of science and technology in specific contexts, and (ii.) struggles over scientific expertise and risky technology in the public sphere. Topics we will examine include the role of culture and organizations in knowledge creation, the issue of gender inequalities in the sciences, expert advising and governance, science and social movements, the cultures of hacking, and the causes of "normal accidents" involving high-risk technology. The course has a strong collaborative learning component, and will include a lot of discussion.
This course is held with SOC 312.
most recent syllabus available from the Department of Knowledge Integration upon request