Cool Topics. Hot Issues. Great Minds

UGS 101 Freshman Seminars on Campus
Course Descriptions

Fall 2009

Spring 2010

FALL 2009

ENGAGING THE WORLD: THE THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE I
UGS 101, Section 001, 1 credit
This seminar is designed to offer students an in-depth exploration of three plays being performed by the Department of Theatre during Fall semester 2009. Team-taught by instructors with expertise in the major aspects of theatre production --acting and directing, design, movement and dance, and dramatic literature -- the seminar will allow participants to gain first-hand acquaintance with the collaborative process of producing a play, from study of the script to the conception of the production developed by the director and designers, the actors’ approach to learning their roles, the work of crew and stage managers in mounting the production, and critical appreciation of the final product, the performance itself. Class meetings are supplemented by attendance at rehearsals and performances. Students will have the opportunity to engage individually with directors, designers, cast, and crew.

Sherrie Barr, Theatre
Kirk Domer, Theatre
Robert Roznowski, Theatre
Tuesday, 4:10-5:00 pm, 144 Auditorium
NOTE: Class meets entire semester

USING INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE
UGS 101, Section 002, 1 credit
How are Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) used in developing economies and in rural or disadvantaged urban areas and what are their impacts? Together we'll explore important challenges for ICT, including how they are best implemented, ways to achieve sustainable development, and other theories that link ICT and economic development. Topics include gender differences and competition in shared computer use, reducing infant mortality using low-cost technology solutions, and business models/entrepreneurship in developing economies. We will particularly focus on projects in Africa, but will also introduce projects in Southeast Asia, South America, and rural Michigan.

Kurt DeMaagd, Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media
Wednesday, 4:10-5:00 pm, 175 Communication Arts Building
NOTE: Class meets entire semester

FROM BEANIES TO BODY PIERCINGS: THE HISTORY OF STUDENT LIFE AT MSU
UGS 101, Section 003, 1 credit
Have you ever wondered what the MSU student experience was 50, 100, or 150 years ago? In this class we will explore the history and culture of MSU students from the earliest years of the University up through the underground culture of the 1960’s and 1970’s. Using primary resources from the Archives, we will explore the evolution of student life at MSU through the eyes of students who attended college here.

Portia Vescio, University Archives & Historical Collections
Tuesday, 4:10-5:00 pm, University Archives, 101 Conrad Hall
NOTE: Class meets entire semester

DIPPING INTO DIGITAL MEDIA: CENSORSHIP, PRIVACY AND ACCESS
UGS 101, Section 004, 1 credit
Once upon a time, we purchased books or went to the library to read, watched movies at theatres or rented videos, and purchased music at a record store or listened to the radio. The internet has enabled a
wide-variety of alternatives to the traditional modes of access suggested above, but brings with it a new set of opportunities and challenges to users and suppliers of information and entertainment. The seminar will explore issues such as censorship, copyright, fair use, privacy, and access to information in the digital age.

Clifford Haka, Libraries
Monday, 4:10-6:00 pm, W452 Main Library
NOTE: Class meets entire semester

FAMILY TRANSITIONS: MAKING, BREAKING AND STRETCHING FAMILY TIES
UGS 101, Section 005, 1 credit
How are family dynamics affected by transitions? This seminar will examine the psychological and sociological transition issues young people and their families encounter. Students will be given an opportunity to explore current family issues, such as the societal and cultural implications of going to college and the significant changes that occur within the family. This seminar will conclude with a group project that will focus on the relationships between young people, the community, and their families. This seminar is open to all students and recommended for Spartan Shadows Mentor Program Participants.

Joy Jacobs, Family and Child Ecology
Tuesday, 4:10-5:00 pm, 314 Morrill Hall
NOTE: Class meets entire semester

RELIGION AND THE QUEST FOR MEANING
UGS 101, Section 006, 1 credit
Where have religions come from? Where are they going? What kinds of religions are there in the world and how do they differ? It's valuable, and at times vital, to understand religious attitudes other than one's own. In this seminar we will explore ways in which the modern field of religious studies seeks to answer important questions about religioins. We'll sample key readings on religion; explore local religious diversity, possibly visit local places of worship for different faiths; and see videos to learn more about what matters to insiders of different faiths. Grades are based on some written reaction statements to sources assignments and participation in class discussion.

Robert McKinley, Religious Studies
Wednesday, 3:00-3:50 pm
NOTE: Class meets entire semester

SCIENCE, ENERGY AND THE FUTURE OF OUR PLANET
UGS 101, Section 301, 1 credit
We will examine different ways to generate the energy needed to support our economy, including fossil fuels, biomass, solar thermal, photovoltaics, hydro, geo, wind, and nuclear energy sources. We will discuss advantages and drawbacks, scientific basis, environmental impact and economic realities for each technology. We will also discuss the different energy needs, including fuels for transportation, residential and industrial needs along with the status of the US electrical grid and its ability to accept energy from renewable energy sources. The goal is to become more informed about energy sources and the choices we make to utilize them. Global warming, geopolitical impact, food-vs.-fuel, energy efficiency and conservation efforts will be included in the discussion.

Wolfgang Bauer, Physics and Astronomy
Friday, 12:40-2:00 pm, 4205 Biomedical & Physical Sciences
NOTE: Class meets September 11 – November 13

DECISION MAKING IN MEDICINE, LAW & BUSINESS:AN INTRODUCTION TO LEADERSHIP, POWER AND RESPONSIBILITY
UGS 101, Section 302, 1 credit
Explore an overview of factors that play a role in the art of decision-making which provide a route to leadership and power and an understanding of responsibility. Issues such as cost v. benefit; individual vs. society; power, value and ethics; measurement of decision analysis; differential diagnosis; and how to reach conclusions, will be discussed.

E. James Potchen, Radiology
Thomas G. Cooper, Radiology
Wednesday, 4:30-6:00 pm, 162 Radiology
NOTE: Class meets September 9 – November 11

ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS FOR EVERYBODY
UGS 101, Section 303, 1 credit
You can be an entrepreneur in any major or field! Explore the attitudes and characteristics of entrepreneurship through the stories of several successful entrepreneurs and guest speakers who got their start as undergraduates. This seminar covers topics such as creativity, innovation; risk, resourcefulness, and responsibility. Discuss ideas for possible entrepreneurial endeavors both during and after college.

E. James Potchen, Radiology
Tuesday, 3:00–4:20 pm, 139 Radiology
NOTE: Class meets September 8 – November 10

SINISTER GENES
UGS 101, Section 304, 1 credit
The roles of nature and nurture in the development personality, sinister or otherwise, are becoming more clear as we better understand the interactions between the brain, genetic background and the environment in which we develop. Ever wonder why Stalin, Hitler, and Slobodan Milosovic were often considered charming yet murdered hundreds of thousands of people; or how those nice folks over at AIG, who recently destroyed the world's banking economy, were able to make millions of dollars in the process? Readings, group discussions and projects will provide insight into how brain function is shaped by genetics and experience.

Lynwood Clemens
Wednesday, 12:40-2:30 pm, 355 Old Horticulture Bldg
NOTE: Class meets October 21 – December 9

GROWING UP GLOBAL: GLOBALIZATION, CITIZENSHIP AND IDENTITY
UGS 101, Section 305, 1 credit
Are you a global citizen? This course will help you better understand globalization, what it means to be a world citizen, and assist you in determining what your role is in our new global community. "Growing Up Global" examines the historical foundation of globalization and the networks that link the global community. It looks at the case for and against world citizenship, the dichotomy between national bonds and global interests and the question of universal values. By the end of this course, you will demonstrate the critical thinking you will need in other academic courses and throughout your personal and professional lives. It is about how to study and think about global problems and relationships.

Shannon Burton, School of Criminal Justice
Monday, 1:00-2:20 pm, 321 Baker Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 21 –November 23

POWER, PRIVILEGE & INTIMATE VIOLENCE
UGS 101, Section 306, 1 credit
This course will closely examine aspects of power and privilege as they play out in particular forms of personal and intimate violence, specifically sexual and relationship violence. Power realized through privilege based on gender, racial/ethnic identity, sexual identity, etc. significantly shapes how such violence is experienced. Particular emphasis will be placed on violence within campus communities.

Shari Murgittroyd, Sexual Assault Program
Tuesday, 3:00-4:50 pm, 204 Natural Science
NOTE: Class meets October 6– November 17

CITIZEN SCIENCE: ARE YOU CLUED INTO THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES AND AGRICULTURE
UGS 101, Section 307, 1 credit
Have you ever wondered how you can make a difference by educating citizens about our natural resources? Do you have what it takes to teach others about the environment? How can we better connect today's citizens and K-12 students with their local food and natural resources? How do communities benefit when they offer healthy food and access to quality natural resource-based recreation and tourism? Is there a place to help the environmental world? Join us for a first hand exploration of issues concerning the environment and the sustainability of our food, fiber, and natural resource systems.

Mike Everett, CARRS
Monday, 3:00-4:20 pm, 306 Natural Resources
NOTE: Class meets September 14– November 16

THE ART AND SCIENCE OF BUILDING A FIELD OF DREAMS: TURF GRASS AT THE BEIJING OLYMPICS
UGS 101, Section 308, 1 credit
This seminar delves into what it takes to manage a major international project from MSU's world renowned Guru of Grass. Just what went into growing and installing portable turf grass for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing? We'll explore various scientific disciplines, math, and the intercultural competencies needed to navigate the intricacies of implementing this wildly successful project built on research.

John Rogers, Crop and Soil Sciences
Thursday, 1:00-2:20 pm, E111 Fee Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 3– November 5

PRICING HUMAN LIFE: ETHICAL AND POLICY CHALLENGES
UGS 101, Section 309, 1 credit
The focus of this seminar will be the "Just Caring" problem: What does it mean to be a just and caring society when we have only limited resources (money) to meet virtually unlimited health care needs? How can we determine which lives we are morally obligated to save with social resources and in which circumstances it is morally permissible to allow someone to die? This is the problem of health care rationing. If we take seriously this problem, then the implication is that we "put a price on human life". That is, we judge that it is sometimes too expensive to save or prolong some lives. Are choices like that always morally objectionable? Why or why not? What sort of public policies should we learn in relation to these issues? All these questions are central to the debates on health reform we are having this year. Seminar will meet 09/14/09-11/16/09 with the final due 11/23/09.

Leonard Fleck, Philosophy and Center for Ethics
Monday, 4:10-5:30 pm, 141 Akers Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 14– November 23

CRITICAL REASONING AND PUBLIC HEALTH
UGS 101, Section 310, 1 credit
Using the cholera epidemics in London, England as the central case study, we will examine how the cause of the epidemics was determined via critical reasoning long before the development of germ theory. This seminar will explore ‘critical reasoning’ what it is and is not, how a critical reasoning strategy was (and is) applied within the discipline of public health.

Michael Rip, Epidemiology
Wednesday, 3:00-4:50 pm, E111 Fee Hall
NOTE: Class meets October 7– November 18

CLIMATE CHANGE, PEAK OIL & BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
UGS 101, Section 311, 1 credit
This seminar will explore contemporary challenges posed by climate change, peak oil and economic instability and the growing impact these concerns are having on our lives. We will examine the roots of each problem, focusing on the underlying science. We will also focus on solutions, including the work of the Climate Project, the Transition Movement and other groups offering new strategies and approaches. Students will have the opportunity to focus their research on areas or issues that they care about, including the impact on food, transportation, buildings, and energy use. The class will help students understand the overall challenges and the underlying policy concerns, as well as the things we can do as individuals to deal with the problem.

Bonnie Bucqueroux
Wednesday, 3:00-4:20 pm, 100 Berkey Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 16– November 18

NEW IMMIGRANTS: FROM PERSECUTION TO FREEDOM
UGS 101, Section 312, 1 credit
Who are new immigrants? What is a refugee? Where do they come from? This seminar explores the experiences of new immigrants including refugees with particular focus on Michigan’s Muslim, the Lost Boys of Sudan, and Cuban and Hmong communities. We will take an interactive approach to link local to global in order to enhance student’s understanding of lives of immigrants and refugees. The seminar will incorporate many voices including guest speakers from academia, community organizations, the refugees themselves, films, and internet sources, as well as, possible visits to the local Islamic Center and Refugee Development Center.

Khalida Zaki, Sociology
Friday, 10:20-12:10 pm, 314 Berkey Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 4– October 16

IT’S MY SPACE: ETHICS & PRIVACY IN A VIRTUAL WORLD
UGS 101, Section 313, 1 credit
Access to online information and communication has created exciting opportunities and many new challenges for our society and how we live our lives. The ethical considerations and responsibilities associated with Internet information have created a complex and often muddled understanding of what is ethical and what is acceptable practice. This seminar will give students an opportunity to explore hot topics in ethics and privacy involving Facebook, MySpace, file sharing, cyber-stalking and bullying, credit reports, medical records, identity theft, and other current events related to the focus of this seminar.

Mark Rinella, Residence Life
Wednesday, 4:10-5:30 pm, 321 Baker Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 9– November 11

THE CIVIC CONNECTION: EXPLORING UNIVERSITY & COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS
UGS 101, Section 314, 1 credit
Learn about different structures of leadership and various community groups that work to create a lively dynamic. Through this seminar, you will contribute to current discussions and initiatives between East Lansing community and campus partners. We will go behind the scenes of city government, university administration and community services through a mix of reading, writing, discussion, and hands-on experiences to explore how community and university initiatives impact the lives of students.

Erin Carter, Student/Governmental Affairs
Thursday, 1:00-2:20 pm, 328 Student Services
NOTE: Class meets September 3– November 12

GO TO HEALTH!
UGS 101, Section 315, 1 credit
This seminar is an interactive experience that challenges the student to examine critically 'what is health and how to achieve it'. We will explore the topics of sexuality, nutrition, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, fitness, illness and injury and how they impact her/his academic and social success. You will have an opportunity to experience personal health assessments and examine contemporary data as well as explore 'why we don't always do what we should'. This seminar is a prerequisite for those who like to have the freedom to find his or her way to academic and social success.

Dennis Martell, Health Education
Tuesday, 3:00-4:50 pm, 247 Olin Health Center
NOTE: Class meets September 22– November 3

GREEN CHEMISTRY
UGS 101, Section 316, 1 credit
Explore chemistry through presentations and discussions with scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs who work at the level of atoms and molecules-the alphabet of all matter- to understand and improve human technologies and their impacts. Without chemical insights, the ‘Green’ issues of recycling, environmental pollution, global warming, and energy choices cannot be addressed. The series will include several field trips to relevant businesses and labs around Michigan. Class grading will be based on attendance and a final paper/presentation.

Steve Poulios, Chemistry
Monday, 7:00-8:20 pm, 136 Chemistry
NOTE: Class meets September 21– November 23

INSIDE THE SOLOIST
UGS 101, Section 317, 1 credit
“The Soloist” by Steve Lopez touches on many important themes including mental health, homelessness, friendship, and the power of music just to name a few. Throughout this seminar, students will have an opportunity to explore many of these themes with class discussions, guest speakers, events on campus and in the community, and through reflection papers and research assignments. Course will meet from 9/3/2009-9/29/2009 with two hours arranged. Note that participants will be required to attend several One Book One Community events as assignments.

Janet Lillie, Communication Arts & Sciences
Tuesday & Thursday, 8:30-9:50 am, 171 Communication Arts Bldg
NOTE: Class meets September 3– September 29

DISCOVERING AND CONNECTING MAJORS, ACADEMICS AND CAREERS
UGS 101, Section 320, 1 credit
This seminar is designed to provide participants with the basic framework needed to assist in the process of making discoveries about personal interests, majors, and careers. Participants will be introduced to theories, tools, and strategies for identifying strengths, values, and skills needed to make effective academic decisions. Additionally, the seminar is structured to provide participants with opportunities to research current literature related to academic/career decision making, to discuss assigned reading materials, to analyze data from self-assessment instruments and to develop an academic portfolio that highlights the major/career exploratory inventory of information gathered throughout the seminar.

Bonita Curry, Undergraduate University Division
Ashley Hawkins, Undergraduate University Division
Michelle Fero, Undergraduate University Division
Tuesday, 10:20-12:10 pm, S135 South Kedzie
NOTE: Class meets September 22– November 6

ACADEMIC SUCCESS IN THE FIRST YEAR OF COLLEGE: RESEARCH VS. REALITY
UGS 101, Section 321, 1 credit
Some researchers study how students learn and transition into college. In this interactive seminar you will read, discuss and debate what researchers and experts say about making a successful college transition and test it against your own experience. Seminar participants will design a plan that can enhance the first year college experience based on their analysis of discoveries made in the summer.

Bonita Curry, Undergraduate University Division
DeAndre Carter, Undergraduate University Division
Thursday, 10:20-11:40 am, E111 Fee Hall
NOTE: Class meets September 17– November 19

SPRING 2010

LIFE’S VALUES AND VENTURES: AN INTRODUCTION TO LEADERSHIP, POWER AND RESPONSIBILITY
UGS 101, Section 001, 1 credit
Gain insights into effective leadership as we examine elements of both individual and societal decision making; discuss and cultivate a greater awareness of performance expectations and lessons learned to effectively contribute and lead in tomorrow's worlds of business, medicine, and politics. Probe the conventions you accept or reject, and understand how to reach conclusions. Final paper due on the last day of class, April 30.

Arlene Sierra
Tuesday, 3:00-4:20pm, 162 Radiology
Note: Class meets entire semester

ENGAGING THE WORLD: THE THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE II
UGS 101, Section 002, 1 credit
This seminar is designed to offer students an in-depth exploration of three plays, musicals and dance concerts being performed by the Department of Theatre during spring semester 2009. Team-taught by instructors with expertise in the major aspects of theatre production-acting and directing, design, movement and dance, and dramatic literature-the seminar will allow participants to gain first-hand acquaintance with the collaborative process of producing a play, from study of the script to the conception of the production developed by the director, choreographer and designers, the actors’ approach to learning their roles, the work of crew and stage managers in mounting the production, and critical appreciation of the final product, the performance itself. Class meetings are supplemented by attendance at rehearsals and performances. Students will have the opportunity to engage individually with directors, designers, cast, and crew.

Sherrie Barr, Theatre
Kirk Domer, Theatre
Robert Roznowski, Theatre
Tuesday, 4:10-5:00 pm, 144 Auditorium
Note: Class meets entire semester

WORLD CINEMA: FILMS ABOUT GROWING UP
UGS 101, Section 003, 1 credit
This seminar features some of the best films made worldwide dealing with childhood and adolescence. Short reaction papers will be mixed with in-class discussions on the films and global cinema. Film screenings will be held immediately after class from 7 - 9 pm.

William Vincent, Film Studies
Wednesday, 5:30-6:20 pm, 313 Bessey Hall
Note: Class meets entire semester

PURL’S OF WISDOM: AN INTRODUCTION TO UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH AT MSU AND BEYOND
UGS 101, Section 004, 1 credit
Students will be introduced to the realities of scientific research and interact with faculty researchers from a range of disciplines. The seminar will meet weekly and also includes three site visits to research facilities around Michigan, at times to be arranged. The seminar is the first stage of PURL, the Program for Undergraduate Research in the Life Sciences, and is recommended only for students who have an interest in the program. PURL is open to students from all majors with an interest in life sciences research. For more information on PURL, see: www.msu.edu/~shingle9/PURL.html

Alex Shingleton, Zoology
Thursday, 4:00-4:50 pm, 351 Natural Sciences Building
Note: Class meets entire semester

RUNNING TO STAND STILL: PLANTS AND THE RACE AGAINST GLOBAL CHANGE
UGS 101, Section 005, 1 credit
he environment is rapidly changing. Temperatures are rising, biological invasions are changing the composition of communities, and once expansive habitats have become fragmented into small patches. These global changes can impact the survival of all organisms; however, unlike animals, plants cannot run from these novel threats. In this seminar you will examine the consequences of global changes for plants. We will investigate how scientists study these environmental changes and discuss how global warming, rising CO2 concentrations, and other anthropogenic changes impact both the ecology and evolution of plant communities. The seminar will culminate in a required Saturday field trip to Kellogg Biological Station where we will perform our own experiments in an existing global warming experiment.

Jennifer Lau, Plant Biology
Thursday, 11:30 am-12:20 pm, 150 Natural Sciences Building
Note: Class meets entire semester

GROWING UP GLOBAL: GLOBALIZATION, CITIZENSHIP AND IDENTITY
UGS 101, Section 301, 1 credit
Are you a global citizen? This course will help you better understand globalization, what it means to be a world citizen, and assist you in determining what your role is in our new global community. "Growing Up Global" examines the historical foundation of globalization and the networks that link the global community. It looks at the case for and against world citizenship, the dichotomy between national bonds and global interests and the question of universal values. By the end of this course, you will demonstrate the critical thinking you will need in other academic courses and throughout your personal and professional lives. It is about how to study and think about global problems and relationships.

Shannon Burton, School of Criminal Justice
Wednesday, 12:40-2:00 pm, 255 Baker Hall
NOTE: Class meets January 20 – March 31

GREEN GOES HIGH TECH: ENGINEERING FOR SUSTAINABILITY
UGS 101, Section 302, 1 credit
Concerns about biosecurity, food quality, food safety, and environmental sustainability are greater than ever before, stimulating new technology and engineering careers. This seminar explores new technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning system (GPS) and nanotechnology used in land use planning, watershed mapping, monitoring managed ecosystems, as well as food supply quality control and management. This seminar features interactive demonstrations and uses of these new technologies and discussions on how they relate to safe food, environmental and biological systems. Students will have fun, hands-on-experiences with robotics, GPS units, and biosensors. Students interested in learning more about rewarding engineering, technology and science careers should enroll in this section.

Luke Reese, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering
Wednesday, 4:10-6:00 pm, 281 Chemistry
NOTE: Class meets January 13 – February 24

POLITICS IN FILM AND LITERATURE
UGS 101, Section 303, 1 credit
The seminar will look at the political thought of authors and directors embedded in their novels and films. Our aim in this seminar is to examine political and social themes within the context of different various works of art. We hope to introduce students to a way of reading and watching that enriches their experience of novels and films and deepens their understanding of art as a way of reflecting about the political issues of our time. We will look at several issues (dystopian visions of a future society, ambition and dictatorship, civil and ethnic war) by reading a novel and watching a film devoted to each of these themes. Class will meet for 7 sessions and three film screenings as specified in the instructor’s syllabus between 1/27/10 and 3/31/10. Final paper due 4/14/10.

Sherman Garnett, James Madison College
Wednesday, 7:00-8:50 pm, 331 Case Hall
NOTE: Class meets January 27– April 14

FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND FREEDOM OF THE PRESS IN THE UNITED STATES
UGS 101, Section 304, 1 credit
The U.S. Constitution guarantees us the right to free expression; however, the interpretation of our rights to free speech and a free press continue to evolve. This course offers students the chance to explore how our history has shaped today, including what these freedoms mean in an increasingly diverse society. The course will assess the impact that contemporary challenges such as terrorism have had on free speech, as well as the impact that changing economics and new technologies are posing to a free press.

Bonnie Bucqueroux, Journalism
Wednesday, 3:00-4:20 pm, 175 Communication Arts Building
NOTE: Class meets January 13 – March 24

CITIZEN SCIENCE: ARE YOU CLUED INTO THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES AND AGRICULTURE
UGS 101, Section 305, 1 credit
Have you ever wondered how you can make a difference by educating citizens about our natural resources? Do you have what it takes to teach others about the environment? How can we better connect today’s citizens and K-12 students with their local food and natural resources? What is the economic benefit to communities when they offer healthy food and access to quality natural resource-based recreation and tourism? Is there a place for you to help the environmental world? Join us for a first hand exploration of these issues concerning the environment and sustainability of our food, fiber, and natural resource systems.

Michael Everett, CARRS
Monday, 3:00-4:20 pm, 85 Chemistry
NOTE: Class meets January 11 – March 29

CRITICAL REASONING AND PUBLIC HEALTH
UGS 101, Section 306, 1 credit
Using the cholera epidemics in London, England as the central case study, we will examine how the cause of the epidemics was determined via critical reasoning long before the development of germ theory. This seminar will explore ‘critical reasoning’ what it is and is not, how a critical reasoning strategy was (and is) applied within the discipline of public health.

Michael Rip, Epidemiology
Wednesday, 3:00-4:50 pm, 131 Hubbard Hall
NOTE: Class meets January 13 – February 24

ETHICS, GENETICS, AND PUBLIC POLICY: EMERGING CHALLENGES FROM NEW GENETIC TECHNOLOGIES
UGS 101, Section 307, 1 credit
The key question in the course would be this: To what extent should it be morally and politically permissible for parents to modify or enhance the genetic endowment of their future possible children? Should such advances in our medical capacities be left entirely to decisions made in the privacy of the doctor-patient relationship? Or should there be public policies regulating and limiting how such technologies are used, or whether such technologies should be available at all? Would unregulated access to such technologies yield even greater social and economic inequalities in our society if access to these technologies were determined by ability to pay? What policies should a society adopt in relation to these technologies if this society wants to both respect individual freedom and protect social justice?

Len Fleck, Center for Ethics & Humanities in the Life Sciences
Monday, 4:10-5:30 pm, TBA
NOTE: Class meets January 25– April 5, 2010