Subject examines the brain as a cultural object in contemporary media, science, and society. Explores cultural assumptions about neuroscience by drawing on anthropology, history, semiotics, and the cognitive sciences. Topics include historical views of the brain; digital images of the brain; psychopharmacology; mental illness; neurotransmitters; and the culture of brain science. Class assignments include three brief analytical papers and one oral presentation.
Papers are due on the first day of the week--there will be a grade reduction for lateness.
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Analysis Paper 1 (5-7 pages)
Of scientific or popular science article.
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Term Paper (in middle, using concepts)
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Mapping a subfield in neuroscience/psychiatry etc.
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Journals, players, concepts.
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Interview and/or fieldwork.
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Analysis Paper 2 (5-7 pages)
Comparing popular and academic papers or create teaching tool (webpages or applet, etc.)
Participation
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Questions everyday from readings.
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A sentence from each text that inspired you--be prepared to discuss.
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Two questions from different readings
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be prepared to describe context in the text, author's argument.
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be prepared to provide your answer (as to why a smart person would have done it)
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be prepared to answer another person's question.
Attendance
You must attend all classes and sections--each class is an entire week.