Science & Society Seminar
“The Science and Society Seminar is for students seeking a novel perspective on the sciences and a deeper appreciation of the principles governing natural and mathematical systems. It is a unique opportunity for Georgetown first-years to explore the path of scientific inquiry and the ongoing development of scientific understanding.”
—Professors Maria Donoghue (Biology) and James Mattingly (Philosophy), instructors of the 2007 Science and Society Seminar
The Science and Society Seminar combines instruction in the humanities and the sciences to examine themes that define contemporary life. The theme of the fall 2007 seminar was “Biology and Society.” No science in the second half of the twentieth century has transformed human life more than biology. The discovery of the structure of DNA in 1953 began the “genomic age” in which we now live. The 2007 seminar considered major issues of that age that have become topics of public debate, including stem cells, cloning, genetically modified organisms, infectious agents, the neurobiology of cognition and memory, as well as larger issues that touch deeply-held beliefs, such as the origin of life. As these and other biological concepts were covered, students also became acquainted with the contemporary social and philosophical issues that surround them, including the special nature of biological knowledge and how our conception of both ourselves and of the human species have been transformed by modern biology.
The seminar addressed such issues as:
- whether morality is a product of evolution
- whether the complexity of life precludes the role of chance
- whether free will is compatible with current theories in biology.
The Science and Society Seminar incorporates learning techniques that stress classroom discussion and active engagement in an interdisciplinary approach to science studies. The seminar also fosters close interaction with its two faculty members through off-campus activities, including Washington-area field trips and “discussion dinners” at local restaurants.
Who may apply?
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All first-year students in Georgetown College who are not majoring in math or science or pursuing pre-medical coursework. The course is geared to the non-science major audience.
Application procedures
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Admitted first-year students are sent application materials in early June.
Course/credit equivalencies
- 2 courses and 7 credits in the fall semester
Semester- or year-long?
- The SSS is a semester-long commitment.
Requirements fulfilled
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2 general education requirements (1 science and 1 general philosophy)
Enroll in SSS and another seminar option?
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Accepted students may enroll concurrently in both the Science and Society Seminar and an Ignatius Seminar, as long as there are no overlaps in meeting times.
