Genetics, Nature and Society (U03683)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : SPS-3-U03683

This course explores the development of genetic knowledges and technologies, specifically human genetics, from a broadly sociological perspective. It considers the social and cultural contexts in which those knowledges and technologies relating to human genetics have developed, and how those knowledges and technologies have in turn helped to shape society and culture. Key themes pursued throughout the course are the role of human genetics in shifting constructions of identity, health, illness and disability, the natural and the social. In focussing on these issues, the course will examine constructions of expertise and lay-expert relations, along with relevant sociological concepts such as geneticisation, risk and eugenics.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Sociology, (School of Social and Political Studies, Schedule J)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 3rd year

? Delivery Period : Not being delivered

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Thursday	16:10	18:00	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students should be able to demonstrate through written work, oral presentations, practical assignments and other contributions in class, that they:
- understand the range of competing interests shaping developments in genetic knowledges and technologies
- have knowledge of key conceptual tools and theoretical approaches to the study of human genetics from a sociological perspective
- have a strong grasp of the political aspects of lay-expert relations vis-a-vis democracy and inclusion/exclusion and how a sociological analysis can contribute to public debates on these issues.