136-103 The Good Life and Science

Formerly available as 136-030. Students who have completed 136-030 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. Students cannot enrol in this subject if they completed 136-226/326 prior to 1996 or 136-103 prior to 1999.

Many important and difficult questions arise in the course of a human life, but perhaps the most significant question any individual can ask is 'How should I live in order to live a good life?' This subject focuses on how to frame that question. In particular we are interested in how to understand science so that we can ask about 'the good life' in a way that is relevant to our times. First we focus on the figure of 'the scientist'. In lectures for the first four weeks we explore how 'the scientist' features in the popular culture of cinema and TV documentaries. We explore and critique the ways 'the scientist' has been portrayed with respect to questions of human nature and human happiness, and how popular cinema and documentary portray relations between 'the scientist' and politicians, the media, and the military. The second part of the subject we ask about useful ways of recognising the complexity of the real-life situations within which scientists work. The third section of the semester is devoted to exploring how to use these new understandings in analysing contemporary controversies that involve science and technology and in beginning to ask questions about 'the good life'. You are supported in researching a controversy of your choice and writing a report.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• conduct independent research;

• make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

Written work totalling 4000 words comprising a 1000 word essay 25% (due in week 6), a 1000-word class test 25% (due in week 10) and a 2000 word research report 50% (due at the end of SWOT VAC). A hurdle requirement of a minimum 70% attendance required.