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This course analyses the social dimensions of scientific and technological activities in contemporary societies. It examines how social forces such as politics, economics and culture shape scientific and technological innovation. It draws on sociological theory and empirical evidence. It shows how science and technology operate through specific institutions and norms in universities, government and private firms. It also shows how science and technology function as a social system of exchange and how they are socially constructed. It considers the role of government and experts in relation to gender, race and identity. Finally, the course analyses case studies on controversial issues such as biotechnology, vaccination, climate change and artificial intelligence. Poslední úprava: Auger Jean-François, Dr. phil., M.A. (01.10.2024)
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The overall aim is to provide students with analytical tools and basic facts to understand the social dimensions of scientific and technological activities: - Become familiar with sociological theories of science and technology; - To gain knowledge of the socio-historical roots of science and technology institutions; - Understand the construction of science by the scientific community and society; - Analyse the current impacts and controversies of science and technology on society. Poslední úprava: Auger Jean-François, Dr. phil., M.A. (01.10.2024)
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The mark is calculated out of 100 points. (1) Text summaries Two 250-400 word summaries of a journal article, book chapter or book on the sociology of science and technology. The title of the summary is the full reference to the document in scholarly reference style. The abstract clearly identifies the topic, the problem, the method (if empirical), the structure of the evidence and the main findings. The text of the reading can be in any language. The first text is due on 1 November and 29 November 2024. 10 points each. (2) Take-home test (30 marks) The take-home examination assesses your understanding of the material covered in class and in the readings. One long question tests the ability to articulate ideas, concepts and facts. Ten short questions test knowledge of basic concepts. Due 17 January 2025. 30 points. (3) Topic Essay (50 marks) An essay developing a case study related to one of the sociology of science and technology themes. The length should be between 1,500 and 2,500 words. The reference list must include at least five scholarly documents, which can be in any language and formatted in an established referencing style. The essay is due on 31 January 2025. 50 points. Poslední úprava: Auger Jean-François, Dr. phil., M.A. (18.10.2024)
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The course includes practical workshops on brainstorming research ideas, reading academic texts and writing essays among others. Students will be invited to give both team and individual oral presentations to develop their public speaking skills. Poslední úprava: Auger Jean-François, Dr. phil., M.A. (02.10.2024)
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- Introduction to the sociology of science and technology Course materials, including a list of basic scientific references, will be posted on Moodle. Poslední úprava: Auger Jean-François, Dr. phil., M.A. (02.10.2024)
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