Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts (Sociology), Bachelor of Social Science, Bachelor of Social Science (Sociology) and, Sociology co-major and minor.

Aims & Objectives:

As a result of studying this unit of study students can expect to develop the following:

• An understanding of the biotechnology revolution and its social implications.
• An understanding of the relevant theoretical perspectives on the social dimensions of the biotechnology revolution.
• An understanding of the policy implications of the biotechnology revolution.
• An appreciation of bioethics.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures and Tutorials

Assessment:

Tutorial participation, Essay, Examination

Generic Skills Outcomes:

Students can expect to improve the following generic skills:

• Ability to identify research questions
• Ability to engage in critical analysis of social issues
• Understanding of social policy and the policy process

Content:

• Theories of biotechnology and society.
• Dimensions of the biotechnology revolution.
• Emergent social issues: e.g. genetic paternity testing, designer babies, ageing
• Social policy
• Public attitudes
• Bioethics

Reading Materials:

Pilnick, A, Genetics and Society: An Introduction, Open University Press, Buckingham and Philadelphia, 2002.