Alien Empire: Bizarre Biology of Bugs

Catalog description

Insects are the most abundant and diverse animals on earth. This course explores the bizarre biology of insects and their interaction with humans. It examines both the detrimental roles insects play (e.g., pests and vectors of disease) as well as their beneficial roles (e.g., pollination, edible insects, insect products such as waxes, dyes, and silk). The course also explores the symbolic representation of insects in art, literature, and religion. Students taking the course meet for small group discussions, debates, demonstrations, and documentary films on the biology of insects. This course is suitable for non-life sciences majors.