Time Schedule:
Marjorie A Olmstead
PHYS 428
Seattle Campus
Class description
This course will be offered jointly with Physics 576. Taking an interdisciplinary perspective, this seminar examines a broad range of ethical issues associated with nanotechnology. Topics include environmental, health, and safety concerns; security and privacy implications; economic effects; national and international political implications; media and public perceptions; cultural and religious repercussions; medical technologies; and legal and regulatory issues.Weekly guest speakers (from across the UW campus and outside) will present a particular aspect of ethical interest, discuss how it relates to nanotech research, and examine possible responses. Students will work in small groups to develop a short case study based on one of the topics presented. The case studies will be made available online through an NSF-funded website on nanoethics at the University of Washington. Course can be taken for undergraduate or graduate credit and is open to students from across the UW campuses.
Student learning goals
Identify and address ethical issues associated with nanotechnology.
Assess possible responses to the issues raised.
Develop case studies that provide additional direction for the topics raised and make available as online resource for graduate students and faculty.
General method of instruction
Seminars on Tuesdays; reading and discussion of the next week’s speaker on Thursdays. Readings will be assigned prior to the guest lectures and will be made available by email or handout.
Recommended preparation
Students are expected to be active and prepared participants every day of class. Any assigned readings are to be completed prior to each class meeting, as they provide the basis for in-class discussions and activities. Because the topics build on each other, regular attendance is essential for informed participation.
Class assignments and grading
Students will work in teams to develop a case study that addresses one of the topics covered by the class speakers or another related topic of their choosing. The group project will be discussed fully in class and ample class time will be reserved for completing the project with group members.
The course is credit or no credit. Credit received will be based on completing the group project.
