Social Dimensions of Science -- Syllabus

Description:
This course deals with the issue of how scientific enterprises can be influenced by gender, race and cultural factors, as well as by social economic and political forces. The first part of the course will be centered on the discussion of the following topics:
  • Introductory thoughts on women and science
  • Ancient Times
  • Birth of Modern Science
  • Social Structure of Science
  • Image and the Language of Science
  • Science Education
    The second part of the course will involve students working together on a case study. Small groups of students will be matched to a woman researcher. Together they will investigate the impact of the factors discussed in the first session on the researcher's work and on her professional development.

    Textbook: "Pythagoras' Trousers"
    by Margaret Wertheim

    Suggested Reading:
  • "Whose Science? Whose Knowledge?" by S. Harding
  • "Has Feminism Changed Science?" by L. Scheibinger
  • "How Schools Shortchange Girls - The AAUW Report"
  • "The Science Question in Feminism" by S. Harding

    Instructor: Simonetta Liuti
    Research Professor
    University of Virginia Department of Physics

    Class Schedule:
    Fall Semester 2002
    Mondays 2-4 p.m.
    Physics Department -- Room 313