BSOC 4711 - [The Dark Side of Biology: Biological Weapons, Bioterrorism, and Biocriminality]

(crosslisted)
(also STS 4711) (SBA-AS)

Fall. 4 credits.

Prerequisites: at least one course in STS and one semester of biology beyond introductory biology. Next offered 2012–2013.

K. Vogel.

Rapid advances in biotechnology, as well as changing social and political climates, have created new public fears that the malicious release of pathogens and toxins by states and/or terrorist groups is a serious threat. Debates have also emerged as to what biological research and publications should be restricted and censored to prevent misuse. The course explores the scientific, social, political, legal, and ethical discussions surrounding historical and current work on dangerous pathogens and toxins. This course also takes a look at the role that the expert and lay communities play in the shaping of popular perceptions and public policies in these threat discussions.