ENVS 175 Biotechnology: Social and Environmental Dimensions

Surveys the rapid development of genetic engineering science and biotechnology-based industries and examines the economic, health, environmental, legal, and social justice dimensions of new biotechnology applications: genetic screening, cloning, transgenic animals and crops, genetically engineered food, and biodiversity prospecting. Readings, lectures, World Wide Web site reviews, student presentations, and papers will address controversial choices faced now by scientists, farmers, doctors, consumers, public officials, and global governance agencies.