ENG 2970 - POSTHUMANISM

credits: 3.0
Will explore the contemporary notion of posthumanism, the idea that through science and technology we should modify, enhance and evolve human nature, to increase longevity, intelligence, and wellbeing. As a global and diverse movement, both inside and outside the academic establishment, posthumanism raises important interdisciplinary issues about the practice of science and medicine and about the body and human nature. Through careful study of major works of world science fiction, in the contexts of evolution, history and philosophy, this course examines these issues and evaluates their implications for literature, society, and the practices of science, medicine and humanistic inquiry. Objectives: A) Describe key ideas about the body and human nature from history and science; B) Identify major ideas and issues associated with Posthumanism; C) Analyze and interpret the treatment of posthumanism in world science fiction, in the course contexts; D) Evaluate the implications of this treatment for literature, society, and the practices of science, medicine and humanistic inquiry; E) Examine and critique information and argument related to substantive issues that have a global dimension; F) Communicate course objectives effectively in writing. Method of Instruction: Lecture, Class Discussion, Classroom activities, and Video. Method of Evaluation: Essays (Themes), Reading Quizzes, and Take-Home Quizzes (Summaries). Meets *GLP Distribution Requirement.