Evolution is a word that seems to attract curiosity and controversy wherever it goes. In this non-majors biology class we will talk about what evolution is and isn’t, and how evolutionary theory can be used or misused in a variety of social and scientific contexts. Topics may include the evolutionary responses of organisms to climate change; the evolution of our food; how principles of evolution inform medicine; and how misapplication of evolutionary concepts has been used to support racist and sexist ideas in the United States. Work will include readings, class discussion, individual and group projects, lecture, and homework assignments.
Distribution Area
Students entering Fall 2024 or later: Scientific Inquiry (SI)
Students entering Fall 2024 or later: Studying the Past (STP)
Students entering prior to Fall 2024: Lab Science (SCL DIST)
Students entering prior to Fall 2024: Science (SC DIST)