SCIENCE UNDERGROUND

This seminar will be focused on close readings and discussion of social science approaches to the sciences and the making of knowledge with a special focus on the geosciences and other sciences of the earth. Beginning with readings by historians of science, then moving to anthropologies of science and STS studies, and culminating with anti-colonial approaches, students will be encouraged to think through their own disciplines and research. How do we study a place – and by extension – what is “place” and how do we relate to / know it? We will discuss the methods and ethics of ethnography and other forms of “community engagement” while exploring at least one community-based project for practical application. The community-based project will include optional hands-on workshops on the materiality of place, or, more specifically, on the potential role(s) of clay in addressing ecocide and military contamination through a case study in Puerto Rico.

Students will be expected to lead at least one discussion during the semester (can be in pairs), to submit weekly reflections between 1-2 paragraphs, and to respond to at least two other weekly reflections. Those taking the seminar for 3 credits will present a final paper, to be developed in consultation with the instructor.