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 136-049 Genetics in Society

Note

Formerly available as 136-511, 136-640 and 136-349. Students who have completed 136-511, 136-640 or 136-349 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Credit Points

12.5

HECS Band

1

Coordinator

Dr Rosemary Robins

Prerequisites

Usually admission to the Postgraduate Diploma, Fourth Year Honours in HPS, or a postgraduate coursework program.

Semester

1 (view timetable)

Contact

A 2-hour seminar per week

Subject Description

This subject will examine genetics in society. Theoretical approaches drawn from the sociology of science and technology will be discussed and case studies of the application of genetics in today's society will be examined. These may include the human genome project, genetic screening, gene therapy, and DNA profiling. Students undertaking this subject should acquire a greater understanding of the complex relationship between genetics and society and explore ways of analysing how the new genetics shapes our understanding of human health, reproduction and the environment.

Assessment

Written work totalling 5000 words.

Prescribed Texts

  • T Marteau & M Richards, The Troubled Helix. Cambridge UP, 1999 (pb).


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Status:                   Official 2001
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Authorised by:            Academic Registrar
Email Enquiries:          Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au