Content of Learning Activity

According to the ideals of modern science, the facts that fundamental research produces would be neutral and apolitical. Following this logic, ethical and political questions arise only in relation to the application of knowledge in concrete social contexts. In a first part, the course problematizes - thus introducing students to certain notions developed by the Science-Studies - the very distinction between fundamental and applied research which is constitutive for a conception of science as being neutral. Through a series of historical and contemporary cases - from the nuclear issue to pharmacological research, climate skepticism to research on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) - the course, in a second part, pursues the goal of sensitizing students to the multiplicities of the modes of entanglement between political and economic interests and so-called fundamental research. In a third part, the course asks whether "another science is possible" and introduces the students to a series of contemporary reflections that attempt to answer this question (Naomi Oreskes, Isabelle Stengers etc.).

Required Learning Resources/Tools

Not applicable

Recommended Learning Resources/Tools

Not applicable

Other Recommended Reading

Not applicable

Mode of delivery

• Face to face

Type of Teaching Activity/Activities

• Cours magistraux

Evaluations

The assessment methods of the Learning Activity (AA) are specified in the course description of the corresponding Educational Component (UE)