American Science OpenCourseWare: MIT's Free Undergraduate Class on the Study of Science in America

Published Apr 08, 2009

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Study the history of U.S. scientists' political and ethical decisions from the World War II era to those made today in 'American Science: Ethical Conflicts and Political Choices,' a free OpenCourseWare offered through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The original course was an elective option in several Science, Technology and Society department Bachelor degree programs at MIT.

American Science (Ethical Conflicts and Political Choices): Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Undergraduate Yes No Yes Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes No

American Science (Ethical Conflicts and Political Choices): Course Description

Explore science in America from a historical perspective in 'American Science: Ethical Conflicts and Political Choices,' a free MIT OpenCourseWare. The original MIT course was an elective option in select Bachelor of Science degree programs in the Science, Technology and Society department. Taught by Dr. Brendan Foley, the course covers topics including the evolvement of nuclear weapons, the changes in American Science after the Cold War and current discussions on nuclear, wind and bio fuel power. Historical and political contexts are used to understand how and why scientists make certain ethical decisions. Discussion topics guide students to question what decisions they would make if confronted with the same scientific dilemmas.

This free OpenCourseWare includes class notes and lecture presentations, a course reading list, sample class assignments, downloadable course materials and video and links to guest lecturer biographies and course related materials. To view these course study materials, visit the science of America course page.