Course of Study

• Week 1: Orientation - History of SFPC community agreement, learning objectives, about the final project, and meeting the participants.

• Week 2: Introduction to Human Biomonitoring and Genetic Sampling - Historical context and development of these practices; Importance of ethical considerations in empirical research

• Week 3: Biomarkers for Occupational Hazards - The use of urine, blood, and tissue samples as chemical markers; Ethical concerns regarding the sampling and analysis process; Occupational health and safety regulations and their implications

• Week 4: Genetic Surveillance and Biotechnology - Genetic sampling as a form of surveillance; Implications of genetic information gathering and storage; Privacy and security concerns in genetic surveillance

• Week 5: Metabolic Entanglement: Human Populations and the Environment - Understanding the metabolic entanglement between humans and their environment, Analyzing data produced by human biomonitoring Examining the impact of chemical exposure on human health

• Week 6: Logistics of Surveillance and Environmental Public Policy - Critical analysis of the practices of genetic sampling and biotechnology; Examining the role of surveillance in shaping environmental public policy

• Week 7: Interrogating Artists' Use of DNA and Biotechnical Processes - Exploration of contemporary artists' incorporation of DNA and biotechnology in their work; Discussion of ethical considerations raised by these artistic practices; Examining the intersection of art, science, and ethics

• Week 8: Interdisciplinary Perspectives: Natural Sciences and Genetic Surveillance - Integration of natural sciences in genetic surveillance; Ethical considerations in scientific research and data interpretation

• Week 9: Risk Assessment and Bioethics - Understanding risk assessment methodologies in human biomonitoring; Ethical frameworks and principles in bioethics; Balancing risks and benefits in decision-making

• Week 10: Ethical Reflection and Future Directions - Final presentations

Expectations

Class Structure

• During the 10-week duration of our class, we will engage in a collective effort to create a publication that focuses on the topics we discuss in our lessons(bioethics, biomonitoring, genetic sampling, etc.). Each member of the class will contribute their own unique ideas and perspectives to this project. By the end of the course, we will publish this work digitally, showcasing the original contributions made by every individual in the class.

• Instructors may initiate discussions in class to delve deeper into the assigned readings. Participants should be prepared to engage in these discussions by reflecting on the key points, analyzing the arguments, and contributing their perspectives.

• During certain class sessions, participants may be divided into small groups to discuss specific topics or case studies related to the readings. Active participation in these breakout discussions is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding of the material and gaining insights from peers.

Time & Workload

• Participants are expected to spend time outside of class on assigned readings. These readings provide essential background information, theories, concepts, and examples related to the course material. They are encouraged to actively participate in class discussions related to the assigned readings. This includes sharing their thoughts, insights, and questions about the content.

Learning Outcomes

• Explore the ethical implications of using human bodies as chemical sensing devices for environmental monitoring.

• Examine the role of genetic surveillance and biotechnology in shaping the practices of surveillance and environmental public policy.

• Identify and synthesize theoretical, historical, and sociological themes in the following areas: philosophy of science, Black studies, biomonitoring, genetic sampling, and history of science.

• Investigate the ways in which contemporary artists utilize DNA and biotechnical processes in their work, and analyze the ethical considerations involved.

• Develop interdisciplinary thinking by integrating knowledge from the natural sciences, genetic surveillance, risk assessment, and bioethics.

Is this class for me?

This class may be for you if:

• If you are an artist or designer interested in the ethical implications of scientific research and technological advancements.

• If you are curious about the intersection of biology, genetics, and ethics.

• If you are passionate about bioethics and the ethical considerations surrounding human biomonitoring and genetic sampling.

• If you are interested in environmental ethics and the social and environmental impacts of industrial activities.

• If you are intrigued by the use of genetic surveillance and the potential consequences it may have on individuals and society.

• If you are an artist or designer interested in exploring the creative and artistic applications of biotechnology, DNA, and other scientific processes.

• If you liked the film Gattaca.