DIV2, WS HIS 4528-001 Women in Modern Science and Technology

CRN 32902 MWF 11:30-12:20 Spring 2003 Dr. Johnson

This course is designed to examine a series of issues related to the role of women in modern science and technology. The course will consist of three major parts, in each of which we will use the methods of social history, psycho-history, and the history of science and technology, with attention to feminist as well as other perspectives:

1) women as subjects and objects of modern (since 1600) scientific theories, experimental research, and technological practice (with attention to causes and consequences of differences in the perception of male vs. female bodies, minds, and activities)

2) women in modern scientific and technological professions (professional career obstacles and opportunities, strategies for advancement, development of professional associations, networking, etc.)

3) women as creative scientists, engineers, and inventors (similarities and differences in creative styles and patterns between men and women; problems confronting women in gaining access to institutional support and recognition for their work; case-studies of particular scientists and technologists who were women)

Students will write a short diagnostic essay and one medium-length (5-7 pages) paper, which will be presented in class. There will also be one in-class essay examination and a final.

Book list (final):

Londa Schiebinger, The Mind Has No Sex?; Women in the Origins of Modern Science

Ruth S. Cowan, More Work for Mother: the Ironies of Household Technology from the Open Hearth to the Microwave

Sharon B. McGrayne, Nobel Prize Women in Science

Mary Morse, Women Changing Science: Voices from a Field in Transition

For more information, see the syllabus under "Elective Courses: Spring 2003 " below: