The Science and Politics of the GMO
What exactly are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and why do scientists develop them? Studying the science of GMOs helps us understand biotechnology’s potential role in addressing challenges in agriculture.
In this introductory Food and Nutrition course, you will learn the basics of genetic engineering, explore the political debate around the GMO and review the arguments for and against their use.
We will study the politics surrounding the GMO and its impact at both an individual level and to society as a whole; including the problems, perceptions, benefits, and risks associated with GMOs. Important to understanding the complexities around this topic we will not only be looking at the science behind how the GMO works, but also to the limitations of this science. We will also discuss the importance of information literacy as a tool for effectively identifying and evaluating issues.
Our goal is that this MOOC will impact people's understanding of science, what it can and can't do, and how information is transmitted. The intent is not to influence how people feel about GMOs, but to give them the critical thinking and scientific literacy tools necessary to make informed decisions — and to understand the broader impacts of those decisions.
What you'll learn
- Assess, understand and apply social science concepts as they affect the development and use of biotechnology products and processes
- Gain an understanding of how biotechnology intersects with globalization, trade, poverty, food security, and environmental sustainability
- Understand and evaluate research articles and research methods related to biotech crops
- Learn to formulate well-structured research questions, recognize appropriate research methods, and assess research reports
- Craft thoughtful and effective arguments, with supporting evidence at the intersection of science and social science on issues of public policy
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Rating | 4.0★ based on 1 ratings |
---|---|
Length | 5 weeks |
Effort | 5 weeks, 3–4 hours per week |
Starts | On Demand (Start anytime) |
Cost | $49 |
From | Cornell University, CornellX via edX |
Instructors | Sarah Evanega, Ronald Herring, David Just, Jaron Porciello, Rebecca Harrison |
Download Videos | On all desktop and mobile devices |
Language | English |
Subjects | Science Social Sciences Personal Development |
Tags | Biology & Life Sciences Science Social Sciences Food & Nutrition |
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What people are saying
controversial topic of gmos
I certainly recommend it to anyone interested in a dispassionate overview of the controversial topic of GMOs.
audited this course
I only audited this course (essentially watched the videos), but I found it very interesting and informative.
interesting and informative
certainly recommend it
anyone interested
dispassionate overview
only audited
course ( essentially watched
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An overview of related careers and their average salaries in the US. Bars indicate income percentile.
Lecturer, Social Science and Humanities $28k
Secondary Social Science Educator $58k
Professor of Social Science and History $58k
Social Science Analyst 2 $61k
Secondary Social Science $64k
Social Science Researcher $70k
Social Science Librarian $77k
Social Science Technician $85k
Social Science Adjunct $95k
Associate Professor of Social Science $131k
Chair, Division of Social Science $146k
Chairman, Social Science Department $336k
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Rating | 4.0★ based on 1 ratings |
---|---|
Length | 5 weeks |
Effort | 5 weeks, 3–4 hours per week |
Starts | On Demand (Start anytime) |
Cost | $49 |
From | Cornell University, CornellX via edX |
Instructors | Sarah Evanega, Ronald Herring, David Just, Jaron Porciello, Rebecca Harrison |
Download Videos | On all desktop and mobile devices |
Language | English |
Subjects | Science Social Sciences Personal Development |
Tags | Biology & Life Sciences Science Social Sciences Food & Nutrition |
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