This course introduces students to some key themes in the sociology of science and knowledge. The first set of meetings will focus primarily on the development of the sociology of science and knowledge and explores some main currents and themes within this field (social constructivism, public understanding of science, Actor-network Theory), The second half will look at a number of current issues in contemporary knowledge societies (e.g., risk regulation, globalization of science, policy advice, genetics, environmental issues etc.) and will discuss in particular the role of science and knowledge in addressing these issues.
