The SCOM program has been designed to include subjects on 'science in society' that address political aspects of science and technology. A set of three subjects has been approved to satisfy this requirement, and you will normally take the one of your choice in your second year. Note that the course selected, which are listed below, all have the word ‘politics’ or 'power' in the title, and all are taught by the School of History and Philosophy of Science in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Two of these subjects, HPSC2850 and HPSC2400, are no longer on offer. The lecturers have moved on to other activities, such as running a research institute and retiring. That leaves you with only one approved choice at the moment. I will be seeking committee approval to expand this list. In the interim, though, you can propose to take an alternative HPSC course if you can explain to me how it addresses the political dimension that this requirement is meant to cover. Read the course descriptions for the set of courses listed below to get an idea of what is required in terms of course content. Consider taking another course offered by Merson or Brown, as once a lecturer latches on to political issues, they never let go.

HPSC2850 Information Technology, Politics and the Media with John Merson has been in Session 2. The lecturer has a career of making television documentaries on science and related topics. That experience was woven into the course along with particular insights into mass media and its growing impact on different cultures through the internet, mobiles phones, etc.

HPSC2500 Environment, Technology and Politics with Paul Brown is in Session 1. This course addresses the historical and ideological roots of current environmental controversies. The course suits students both who have and have not taken the first-year course on HPSC1500 (formerly SCTS1107) Understanding Environmental Controversy as their introduction to perspectives on science in society.

HPSC2400 Knowledge and Power with George Bindon has been in Session 1. The lecturer also taught the third-year SCOM3011 course, Communicating Science: Theory and Practice. This course was based on readings and discussion about how the holders of scientific knowledge often gain power and influence in policy issues.