SW 321 - Biology as Destiny

Institution:

DePaul University

Subject:

Description:

From scholarly conferences which debate the site of the "gene for criminality" to mass-appeal treatises on IQ such as The Bell Curve, contemporary biological research is "turning up the heat" on the long-simmering "nature vs. nurture" controversy. The question of whether we are determined by our biology or are products of our culture is once again on the center stage of public concern. Moreover, it seems the very definition of ourselves as unique organisms is under assault. From transplanting the organs of other species into humans, test-tube babies, ans surrogate mothers - to genetic testing, DNA fingerprinting, and sex selecting - from cloning to engineering super-humans: these are but a small sample of the disturbing potential suggested by biology's current "tinkering with life." This course explores the intermingling of biological theories and methods, political ideologies, and social dynamics found in research such as the project to map the human genome. Primarily through lecture, we will first establish a basic knowledge of current genetics. On that basis, through discussion and class exercises, we will explore the history and present status of the shifting definitionof "human nature" We will be interested particularly in how the scientific and social processes involved are influenced by class, race, culture, and gender considerations.

Credits:

4.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.depaul.edu

Phone Number:

(312) 362-8000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Quarter

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