Sociology of Science and Technology - ASGV10010

• Title: Sociology of Science and Technology
• Guaranteed by: Department of Sociology (21-KSOC)
• Faculty: Faculty of Arts
• Actual: from 2023
• Semester: winter
• Points: 0
• E-Credits: 5
• Examination process: winter s.:
• Hours per week, examination: winter s.:2/0, Ex [HT]
• Capacity: 36 / unknown (unknown)
• Min. number of students: unlimited
• 4EU+: no
• Virtual mobility / capacity: no
• State of the course: taught
• Language: English
• Teaching methods: full-time
• Teaching methods: full-time
• Note: course can be enrolled in outside the study plan; enabled for web enrollment
• Guarantor: Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A.
• Teacher(s): Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A.
• Class: Exchange - 14.2 Sociology; Exchange - 14.9 Others-Social Sciences

Annotation

Last update: Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A. (04.10.2023)

The course analyses the social dimensions of scientific and technological activities in contemporary societies. It examines how social forces such as politics, economics and culture shape scientific and technological innovation. It draws on sociological theories and empirical findings. It shows how science and technology operate through specific institutions and norms in universities, government and private firms. It also shows how science and technology function as a social system of exchange and how they are socially constructed. It considers the role of government and experts in relation to gender, race and identity. Finally, the course presents case studies on controversial issues such as biotechnology, vaccination, climate change and artificial intelligence, among others.

Aim of the course

Last update: Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A. (04.10.2023)

The overall aim is to provide the student with analytical tools and basic facts to understand the social dimensions of science and technology activities:

- To be familiar with sociological theories about science and technology;

- To have a understanding of the social construction of science and its institutions;

- To know the current impacts and controversies around science and technology;

- To improve analytical skills by analysing a case study such as a controversy.

Course completion requirements

Last update: Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A. (02.01.2024)

The grade is calculated on 100 points.

(1) Text summaries: Two summaries of 250 to 500 words of a journal article, book chapter or book on the sociology of science and technology. Each summary should identify at least the topic, the problem, the method (if empirical) and the main conclusion. Text of the reading can be selected in any language. First due on 2 November, second on 30 November 2023. 10 points each.

(2) Topic essay: An essay analyses one of the themes of the sociology of science and technology. For example, it could be a scientific and technological controversy. The essay is between 2,000 and 3,500 words long. The reference list must contain at least five scientific documents, that is, two books and three articles. Due 15 February 2024. 50 points.

(3) Take-home exam: The take-home exam assesses the understanding of the material covered in class and in the reading. One long question tests the ability to articulate ideas, concepts, and facts. Ten simple questions test knowledge of basic concepts. Due 8 February 2024. 30 points.

Teaching methods

Last update: Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A. (04.10.2023)

In addition to the regular lectures, the course will include three short practical workshops on brainstorming research ideas, reading scientific texts and preparing essays.

Syllabus

Last update: Dr. phil. Jean-François Auger, M.A. (04.10.2023)

- An introduction to the sociology of science and technology 

- The historical origins of scientific institutions

- Science as a system of social exchanges

- Scientific practises in the laboratory and the field

- The social construction of science and technology  

- Gender, race, and identity in science and technology

- Governments, experts, and science and technology policies

- Science’s public and cultural understanding

- Contemporary fraud and controversies in science

- Emerging technologies and their social implications