Science, Technology and Society

More Information

Science, Technology, and Society in the Course Catalog

Science, Technology and Society (STS) is an interdisciplinary field that studies the
conditions under which the production, distribution and utilization of scientific knowledge
and technological systems occur; the consequences of these activities upon different
groups of people. STS builds on the history and philosophy of science and technology,
sociology and anthropology, policy studies, and cultural and literary studies; all of which
shape the modes of analysis deployed in the field. The intercollegiate program brings
together courses taught in a variety of departments, and is divided into three principal
areas: history of science and technology, philosophy of science and technology, and
social science approaches to technology and science. Courses explore the effects of
science and technology on society and culture; the politics of socio-technical systems;
science policy in national and international contexts; the social and environmental risks
vs. benefits of technological and scientific advancement and, more specifically, cover
topics such as the political economy of pollution, the culture of the scientific laboratory,
theories of race and genetic engineering, social networking and the Internet, the body
and politics of health.
Students majoring in STS are well prepared to pursue graduate study in related field
and also have a solid foundation for work as science journalists, policy researchers and
advisers, science educators, design and business consultants, and advocates of
change around issues such as gender and science, renewable energy and the social
effects of the information revolution. In addition, STS is an excellent academic
background for students intending to pursue careers in medicine, law, business and
education.
Pitzer advisers: G. Herrera, B. Keeley, J. Lorenat, D. Segal, S. Snowiss, A. Wachtel; A.
Wakefield.

Student Learning Outcomes

STS students will learn: