Monday/Wednesday, 1:45 PM -3:14 PM
With a pandemic still lingering and the worst effects of climate change looming, we need science to play an authoritative role in policymaking. Yet by giving science authority, we threaten the stability of democracy, our best means to a just and equitable society. How? Most people have limited knowledge of science, which can impact their ability to meaningfully participate in a policymaking process that utilizes science.
In a democracy, people also have the right, within reason, to live their lives according to their own values. How then can we formulate science-based policies that limit freedoms if citizens reasonably disagree with the value assumptions that scholars now argue are inherent to science? In order to triumph over the challenges we face, must we trade in democracy for technocracy? Or can we feasibly resolve the tension between scientific authority and democracy through better communication? This course addresses these questions through readings in philosophy of science, political philosophy, communication studies, empirical research on science communication, journalistic articles and podcasts. Due to the instructor’s background in journalism, the course pays particular attention to the media, but will also look at the role of social media and formal education in creating and resolving the tension. This will include readings and discussions about polarization, misinformation, censorship and algorithms. Students will primarily be graded on argumentative papers, presentations and participation in class. This course will be discussion-heavy. For more information on the instructor, please see www.vanessaschipani.com. Feel free to reach out to her for further information.