Scientific research has an impact on all of us and on every aspect of our lives. This course will provide a general introduction to ethics issues that are raised by the (non-medical) social and natural sciences. It is organized around three central questions: What counts as “responsible conduct of research” (RCR)?; Who is accountable for the social and environmental impacts of research?; What role do social values play in science and what role should scientific research play in policy-making?
This course is intended for students in the social and natural sciences as well as in Philosophy. It has no prerequisites but if you have taken ISCI 433 you cannot take this course for credit.Texts: Elliott, A Tapestry of Values: An Introduction to Values in Science (Oxford U Press, 2017), available through the bookstore. All other assigned readings will be available through LOCR (Library Online Course Reserves).
Requirements include: in-class participation, discussion posts and comments (25%), a “concept work” essay (15%); a case study project including a group presentation (10%) and an individual essay (25%); and a final take-home exam (25%).