Honors Seminar: The Scientific Implications of Mass Food Production

Catalog description

This course focuses on the health and environmental impacts of the industrialization of food production. Specifically, students investigate the molecular techniques used to engineer genetically modified foods, the use of antibiotics and hormones in animal production, the biological modes of action of both pesticides and herbicides, and the industry’s contribution to environmental pollutants and greenhouse gases. Students gain insight into scientific research methods through readings and classroom discussions. Scientific research articles are used to investigate the consequences of current production techniques. In addition, students develop an understanding of the scientific method by designing and conducting experiments in a laboratory setting. Students demonstrate their understanding of this topic with the completion of a research project.