JINS 389 - Influence of the Gene

This junior interdisciplinary seminar will explore the influence that the concept of the gene and the field of Genetics in general have had on society. The seminar will begin by exploring the literature regarding the definition of the gene from pre-Mendelian thought to our modern molecular understanding. The seminar will review the early roots of genetics as a sub-discipline of biology and how the practical application of plant and animal breeding in the context of the newly conceived genetic principles lead to positive and negative eugenic practices. The seminar will explore the historical and contemporary view of the interrelationship between the gene, environment and phenotype. Lastly, the seminar will focus on the more subtle examples of biological determinism that have been pervasive in societies (e.g., cultural practices, literature and mass media), and discuss how these stereotypes can and have influenced human thought including prejudice, racism, ideology and individual and collective world views.

Prerequisite: Junior status.
Credits: 3 hours
When Offered: (offered fall, odd years)
NOTE: This course fulfills the Junior Interdisciplinary Writing-Enhanced Seminar Interconnecting Perspective of the Liberal Studies Program.
NOTE: This course counts toward the 63-hour Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) graduation requirement.
NOTE: This course is writing-enhanced.