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Home > Degree Programs > Teaching & Courses > 2008-2009 Course Listing > Expertise and Democracy in Science and Technology Policy
IGA-317: Expertise and Democracy in Science and Technology Policy
Semester: Spring
Credit: 1.0
Faculty: Sheila Jasanoff
Schedule
| Day | Time | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Day | ? | ||
| Meet Day | W | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM | MIT |
| Review |
Description
Policymaking in today’s complex, technologically advanced societies could not proceed without the involvement of experts. But who are experts, whom do they represent, what are the sources of their authority, and how can expertise be held to democratic controls? In addressing these questions, this course takes a critical look at the assumptions underlying the use of expertise in policymaking and asks how our intensive reliance on experts affects the quality, effectiveness, and accountability of public policy. Drawing on literature from law, political science, policy analysis, and science and technology studies, the course considers how expertise is defined in such areas as environment, medicine, risk, and bioethics, as well as in various types of legal and regulatory proceedings. Case studies and theoretical readings are used to explore the reasons for expert controversies, the basis for public trust in experts, media reliance on experts, and cross-cultural differences in the use of experts.