IGA-320: Technology and Sustainability

Semester: Spring

Credit: 1.0

Faculty: Calestous Juma

Schedule

Day Time Location
First Day 1/26
Meet Day T/Th 2:40 PM - 4:00 PM T275
Review

Description

Examines the implications of the introduction of new technologies for sustainability, focusing on the interactions between technological innovation and institutional adjustment. While new technology is seen by some as an important source of economic productivity and global competitiveness, others point to the potential risks that such technologies pose to human health and the environment. However the same techniques have the potential to contribute to ecological management.  Course examines the implications of new technological applications for sustainable development, drawing from specific case studies. Addresses technological innovation and sustainability; history and trends in technological innovation; social responses to new technologies; new technologies (in agriculture, energy, industry and other fields); socio-economic impacts; and policy and institutional considerations. Locates the policy discourse on innovation in the broader framework of the relationship between science, technology, and globalization. Students will be graded on a combination of class participation, a concept note, and a final paper. Training in the natural sciences is not a requirement.