This class will focus on the science underlying current advances in biotechnology, and then examine the impacts of these technologies on various aspects of society such as economics, politics, and ethics. The rationale behind this course is that you cannot accurately evaluate the potential benefits or costs of a new technology unless you have a thorough understanding of the underlying science. Demystifying the concepts .
Additional readings are available on electronic reserve.
The syllabus indicates when these readings will be covered in class and a listing of all the articles is included in the syllabus. The majority of these readings are editorial or ethical discussions concerning recent technologies and were published in either national newspapers, or in widely disseminated scientific journals. Full class participation will require some supplemental readings, as assigned in class. Students will sign-up on the first day of class and there will be two presentation per designated class period. These news items can come from newspapers, magazines, or other media forms.