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Academic Year 2004/2005
Intellectuals and the Production of Knowledge
SOC 244 SP
Facts--especially scientific facts--usually appear "as independent beings endowed with life, and entering into relations both with one another and the human race" (Marx, 1872). Marx was primarily interested in the
products
of physical labor when he wrote those words, but knowledge, too, is a COMMODITY: a product of human effort and exchange. It does not spring forth fully formed, but rather has a history, a social setting, and a cast of
interesting
(and interested) characters. Through case studies and cross-disciplinary readings, this course challenges students to examine the social forces that influence the production and producers of knowledge (scientific and
otherwise).
MAJOR READINGS
M. Biagioli, ed., SCIENCE STUDIES READER
S. Shapin, A SOCIAL HISTORY OF TRUTH
S. Gould, THE MISMEASURE OF MAN
Assorted online readings
The readings listed above are tentative and may change before the
start of classes.
EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS
Three papers (two of which will be case studies)
Several short assignments designed to help students determine their paper topics
A reading journal
Attendance and participation
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS
SISP majors who have not taken SOC 151 (or SOC 152) may obtain a prerequisite override from the administrative assistant in the Sociology Department, or directly from the instructor.
COURSE FORMAT:
Lecture/Discussion
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Level:
UGRD
Credit:
1
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS SOC
Grading Mode:
Graded
Prerequisites:
SOC151 OR SOC152
SECTION 01
- Instructor(s): Simpson,Ruth E.
- Times: ..T.R.. 02:40PM-04:00PM; Location: PAC422;
- Reserved Seats: (Total Limit: 25)
- SR. major: 10 Jr. major: 10
- SR. non-major: 0 Jr. non-major: 0 SO: 5 FR: X
Special Attributes:
- Curricular Renewal: Writing
Links to Web Resources For This Course.
Last Updated on MAR-21-2005
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Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459