Humanities Courses

Why Humanities? In the global context there is a lot debate about Public Understanding of Science. This is because a lot of science research is still publicly funded and there is a strong feeling that science has a social responsibility. In many developing nations science is expected to offer solutions to societal problems such as energy food security etc. Science and scientists, however, are engaged in the pursuit of truth and sometimes unaware of the interconnectedness of science and society. The Humanities courses of the four year undergraduate program aim to bring into focus these human and thereby social aspects of science. All science serves humanity either directly or indirectly. Science is dependent on impulses from society, just as society is dependent on scientific outputs for progress. Courses in humanities in a BS program will create an awareness of the larger context within which science is being practiced.

What is the purpose of the humanities courses? The humanities courses will debate this symbiotic relationship of science and society through as many diverse perspectives as is possible. The impact of science on society - how society has changed due to developments science - as well as the impact of society on scientific progress - such as politics and science funding is an instance of the human and societal aspects of doing science. Development is linked intricately to science and scientific research influences the policies and the economics of a nation. Expressions of science are also found in everyday media, books, films etc. These sources give a lot of information about perceptions of science in a society. Humanities will help understand these socio-cultural aspects of science and place science in a larger context. Understanding the implications of science on society and society on science will help to bring in new dimensions into solving problems related to climate change, food security, biodiversity etc.. Working in interdisciplinary teams is easier with such a holistic perspective of approaching problems. Research is enriched through the contributions made by students with such a diverse multidisciplinary experience.

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