At the heart of this course lies an introduction to the foundational concepts of Science and Technology Studies (STS), a dynamic field that interrogates the complex interplay between science, technology, and society. What makes science a unique and enduring endeavor in the quest for knowledge? How have scientific discoveries and technological innovations continuously fueled and shaped each other? And where do we still fall short in embracing gender diversity and intercultural contributions within the scientific community? These guiding questions will lead us through an exploration of the big ideas and pressing issues in STS.

This course provides a critical and comprehensive lens to examine both historical and contemporary dimensions of science and technology. We will explore pivotal scientific paradigms and technological revolutions, uncovering how they arose from—and influenced—their broader social and cultural contexts. Special attention will be paid to the persistent underrepresentation of women and marginalized communities in the sciences, as well as the often-overlooked contributions of non-Western cultures to global scientific progress.

In addition to historical analysis, the course will engage with current and emerging technologies, such as quantum information technology and artificial intelligence. How do these groundbreaking fields challenge our understanding of the world? What ethical, cultural, and societal questions do they raise, and how might they reshape human existence? Our discussions will weave together historical perspectives with topical findings and milestones, fostering a rich understanding of the past, present, and future of science and technology.