How to interpret scientific controversies

What are GMOs and are they dangerous? Are vaccines safe? Is Big Pharma trying to hide cancer cures from the public? How can you learn the truth about these and other controversial topics in science? In a world full of disinformation, what is the actual scientific basis behind some of these controversies, and how can we know what sources to trust? In this class, we will learn about some major scientific topics that cause fear or are controversial. We will learn how to find reliable scientific sources, study historical and current scientific examples, and discover how to read and how to understand scientific sources. This course will include a lecture and group discussion components, as well as readings and coursework designed to increase your understanding of “how we know what we know” in science.

Instructor: Melissa Kelley
Keywords: Science & Environment
CRN: 31033