BEES, TREES, GERMS, AND GENES: A HISTORY OF BIOLOGY

HISTSCI 909

Readings and/or research on the history of biology and medicine. Topics vary.

HISTSCI 133

From medical advancements to environmental crises and global food shortages, the life sciences are implicated in some of the most pressing social issues of our time. Explores events in the history of biology from the mid-twentieth century to today, and examines how developments in this science have shaped and are shaped by society. Investigates the origins of the institutions, technologies, and styles of practice that characterize contemporary biology, such as the use of mice as "model organisms" for understanding human diseases. Examines biological controversies such as the introduction of genetically modified plants into the food supply. Explores how biological facts and theories have been and continue to be used as a source for understanding ourselves.

BOTANY 100

Major emphasis on the roles of plants and microbes in past and present global ecology, and the past and present uses of plants and microbes by humans, including emerging applications of biotechnology.

BOTANY/ENTOM/GENETICS/ZOOLOGY 820

Explore some of the most important themes and debates that have permeated evolutionary biology over the last 50 years. Read key papers related to each controversial topic, debate the pros and cons of competing viewpoints, and reflect on the relevance of the issue to contemporary evolutionary biology.

BOTANY/F&WECOL/ZOOLOGY 672

Study the importance of past events for current ecosystems. Emphasizes concepts and applications.