ENVST-290 Nature and Technology

This course examines the sometimes contentious relationship between the natural world and human attempts to understand it (science) and control it (technology). We survey ethical, social, artistic and scientific distinctions between the natural world and the human-built world. Specific topics include everyday tools (e.g., hammers), food and agricultural practices (corn & chickens), modes of transportation (trains), and emerging biotechnologies (genes & humans). Readings will draw from works in philosophy of technology, environmental history, and science and technology studies.

Maximum Enrollment

Standard Course (40)

Offered

Spring