Science and Society 1b: Nature and Environment (U04464)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 8 ? Acronym : SPS-1-SUSS1bh

This course considers the ways that science and technology shape the relationship between humans and the environment. We will examine a number of topical historical and contemporary cases and in the process reflect on the role played by science and technology in how societies understand nature and environment. Themes to be dealt with include: science and cultural uses of natural resources; sociology of climate science; science, technology and international development; science and public understandings of environmental debates; science, knowledge and power; environmentalism. We will approach these themes by studying various environmental topics, including: wetlands, mountains, the oceans, agriculture, the tropics, climate, global warming, exobiology, forests and ice.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Science Studies Unit, (School of Social and Political Science, Schedule J)

Other subject areas

Environmental Courses, (School of GeoSciences, Schedule N)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 1st year

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 3 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
12/01/2009	17:10	18:00	Lecture Theatre 3, Appleton Tower	Central

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	17:10	18:00	Central
Lecture	Tuesday	17:10	18:00	Central
Lecture	Thursday	17:10	18:00	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Students who have completed the course successfully should be able to:

1. Describe the role played by science and technology in a number of important social and political arenas, particularly those related to issues of nature and the environment.
2. critically evaluate a variety of theoretical standpoints that address the above socio-scientific issues.
3. Describe the position of science and technology as a part of wider society, and account for some of the decisions made by scientists and politicians based on these social factors.
4. Analyse science as a social institution and how this institution shapes public debates about the environment.

Assessment Information

Assessed by a short written assessment (30%) approx. midway through the course, and a long 2,000 word essay (70%), submitted via WebCT to a deadline date. In order to pass the course, the long essay must be passed.