PB/MCB C41X, Heredity and Society, is offered during the Spring semester, 2004, and not again until 2006. It satisfies either the science or social science requirement in L&S. This 4 unit course is divided into two parts: lecture (2 units, 2 lectures/week) and discussion (2 units, lead by a GSI, approximately 4 essays on controversial subjects).
Excellent up-to-date textbook. Ricki Lewis, Human Genetics: Concepts and Applictions, 2003. Get the copy without the CD to save money, and do not purchase previous editions.
Lecture Content. Lectures will use the Lewis text, and its excellent graphics, and special topics to teach the basic concepts, terms and facts that constitute the basis of the broad field called “genetics.” The text has a distinct human body focus. The lectures have the intellectual focus shared by all biological subjects: “evolution.” Special topics will include Roundup-ready corn (used to teach basic genetic principles), genetically engineered food, ecoagriculture, what to do with complete DNA sequences?, measuring and respecting genetic diversity, genetics-personal responsibility-law, genetics and medicine, genetics and our world-view.
The ancestor of this course was taught in 1972 when students wanted their courses “relevant,” which meant that some courses should be taught just for the joy of discovery and self-discovery and to train the student in nothing.
