Science and Technology in World Civilizations: Revolution, Innovation, and Incremental Change ((4 Credits))

Catalog description

Students in this course will examine the historical and ongoing interplay between science, technology, and society with an eye towards understanding the roots of many social, political, and environmental issues. They will explore the history of scientific and technological activities and achievements, in particular major periods such as the agricultural, scientific, and industrial revolutions, and the move to a systems approach within science and engineering. Within this exploration, students will analyze the interplay of science and technology with society and how these revolutionary periods and other turning points came about and affected different regions at different times. By investigating relevant worldviews related to nature and science and technology, students will appraise the impact of these worldviews on the natural and built environment. And, by examining gender and other aspects of diversity, students will assess the influence of the identity of participants and subjects on the interplay between science- and technology-based activities and society.