HUM5012 - Philosophy and Technology

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Identify and analyse the philosophical questions that are raised by modern technological innovations;
Compare and contrast different philosophical methodologies and concepts for understanding science and technology;
Critically evaluate the mutual impact of technology on the person and wider society in relation to philosophical questions, such as questions about human nature, the nature of rationality, power and ideology;
Identify and plan a suitable research topic, conduct appropriate independent research into that topic and present the research findings clearly and precisely.

Content:

The module is designed to introduce students from different disciplines to the history and philosophy of science and technology. The module will address social, cultural and historical aspects of science and explore both how science and technology have impacted on the idea of the person and human societies, but also how historical, cultural and social values are reflected within science. In doing so, the module will explore: the ideology of scientific impartiality, technological determinism, and the social construction of authoritative knowledge.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Learning will be supported through introductory plenary sessions and workshops, particularly in the initial stages of the module. These will include a variety of teaching techniques, such as lectures, student report back/presentations, intensive work on exemplar set texts and group exercises. These taught sessions will focus on skills of searching for, identifying, evaluating and analysing appropriate sources. Research and essay writing aspects will be addressed within the module and particular attention will be given to consideration of structure, pitch, and impact for presentations.

Workshops/seminars
Hours: 32
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 168

Further details relating to assessment
Essay: this assesses comprehension of significant analyses of the nature and value of technology, either through historical context, or through philosophical analysis.

Oral Presentation: this assess the ability to identify an independent research project of appropriate scope and to conduct independent research, presenting findings in a suitable presentation format.

Students may also negotiate their assessment topic with the lecturer.

Assessment:

001 Essay; 2,000 words; end of semester 1 50%
002 Presentation; 15mins; end of semester 2 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Shyane Siriwardena
Level - 5
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 5S2

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