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Life Science in the 20th Century - HPSC3150
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Students studying
 
Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of History and Philosophy
 
 
Course Outline: See below
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Undergraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 6
 
 
EFTSL: 0.125 (more info)
 
 
Contact Hours per Week: 3
 
 
Enrolment Requirements:
 
 
Prerequisite: 36 units of credit
 
 
Equivalent: HPST2137
 
 
Fee Band: 1 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

Explores the rise of the experimental biology disciplines, from the embryology, genetics, bacteriology and physiology of the early 20th century through the 'molecular revolution' of the period around the Second World War and the new sciences it spawned. These include sciences such as cell biology, immunology and above all molecular genetics - the science of the genetic code and the linchpin of current biotechnology.


Learning Outcomes

In this course you will come to:
  • Understand better what defined 'molecular biology' and where it came from, how it rose to its position of great prestige among the sciences, and how it relates to biotechnology and other industries in recent times - along with how the science has been affected by close connection to the business world
  • Learn to think critically about the way histories are written, and about the social forces that help explain the rise and fall of scientific fields
  • Learn how to engage in independent and reflective learning in the history of biological and medical science, and in so doing prepare for possible Honours work
  • Gain generic skills in critical thinking and argumentation.

Assessment

  • Mid term in-class test - 20%
  • Six short 'reponse' papers - 30%
  • Tutorial paper - 10%
  • Final test - 40%

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