Most RC courses are open to LS&A students and may be used to meet distribution requirements.
214/Physics 214. The Physicists and the Bomb.
High school mathematics. (4). (NS). (BS).
Course considers the role played by physicists in the development of the atom bomb, its precursors, and its aftermath. Technical, political, and ethical aspects and impact on literature, language and popular culture are considered.
220. Development of Recombinant DNA Technology.
Sophomore standing. (2). (Excl). (BS).
This course examines the development of recombinant DNA technology from its inception in 1972 to the present and the forces that affected both promotion and control of the field.
232. History of Life.
(4). (NS). (BS).
The course focuses on the historical development of life on earth as known from the fossil record and the diversity, ecology and adaptations of living organisms. Subjects include origins of species, limits and losses in biological diversity, extinction, biogeography, ecological context of human evolution.
250. Ecology, Development, and Conservation in Latin America.
Reading and listening proficiency in Spanish; high school biology or environmental science. (4). (NS).
The course addressed problems of environmental conservation and social development in Latin America. It provides an introduction to topical plant ecology, plant biology, and biogeography, with emphasis on methods for ecological restoration of degraded ecosystems. Some required reading and some lecture and discussion in Spanish.
260. Science and Societal Issues: The Immune System.
Introductory science course. (4). (NS). (BS).
This course provides a basic understanding of the immune system, a biological system that is a focus of current scientific research and of societal and ethical issues raised by the application of scientific knowledge to problems of human health.
263/Urban Planning 263. Energy and the Environment.
(4). (NS). (BS).
An introduction to the concepts of energy, entropy, and the environment, which then serve as a basis for discussion of pollution, scarcity of resources, possible technological catastrophe, and man's future. Basic science and the political-economic aspects of problems and possible solutions are emphasized. Only rudimentary concepts in science and mathematical reasoning are assumed.
265. New Reproductive Technologies.
(4). (NS). (BS).
This course examines the medical, ethical, legal, and social aspects of contraception artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, surrogate motherhood, embryo transfer and freezing, abortion, and sex determination, with an emphasis on the underlying reproductive physiology.
270. New Biotechnology: Scientific, Social and Historical Perspectives.
High school biology. (4). (NS). (BS).
This course examines the scientific basis and history of recombinant DNA and other biogenetic technologies and explores social and ethical issues associated with their application in industry, medicine, agriculture, and by the military.
342. Quantum Mechanics and Relativity from an Historical and Philosophical Perspective.
A college-level course in math or physical science. (4). (Excl). (BS).
A non-technical course for both science and non-science concentrators on quantum mechanics and relativity covering the evolution of the atomic theory of matter in the twentieth century. Personal reminiscences of scientific research, societal aspects, the "two cultures" controversy, and philosophical implications.
343. Scientific Change.
Any introductory science course. (4). (NS). (BS).
The aims of the course are to provide an introduction to recent work in the natural sciences and to provide a critical examination of science and of the influence of its social and cultural environments.
415/Environ. Studies 415. Science and Politics.
One college-level science course. (4). (Excl). (BS).
Introduction to historical, political, and technical dimensions of policy systems guiding U.S. scientific research and technical development. Examines issues and controversies and social dimensions of scientific knowledge.
419/Physics 419/Public Policy 519/NR&E 574. Energy Demand.
Basic college economics and senior standing. (3). (SS).
Analysis and methods of analysis of energy use from physical, economic, behavioral and policy perspectives, emphasizing the projection of future demands for energy.