Universität Wien

210128 SE M11: FOP Forschungspraktikum (2023W)

Science Skepticism (engl.)

12.00 ECTS (4.00 SWS), SPL 21 - Politikwissenschaft
Prüfungsimmanente Lehrveranstaltung
VOR-ORT

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Details

max. 35 Teilnehmer*innen
Sprache: Englisch

Lehrende

Termine (iCal) - nächster Termin ist mit N markiert

  • Donnerstag 05.10. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 12.10. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 19.10. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 09.11. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 16.11. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 23.11. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 30.11. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 07.12. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 14.12. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 11.01. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 18.01. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
  • Donnerstag 25.01. 16:45 - 20:00 Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock

Information

Ziele, Inhalte und Methode der Lehrveranstaltung

Science skepticism has recently emerged as a prominent phenomenon in contentious debates, particularly concerning those on health-related issues, climate change, and genetic engineering. In response, this seminar aims to thoroughly explore the concept, causes, and consequences of various manifestations of science skepticism.

The first part of the course delves into the conceptual, theoretical, and normative foundations. We address essential questions such as: What is science skepticism? How does it differ from 'scientific skepticism'? And, when is science skepticism a problem?

Continuing our investigation, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of various forms of science skepticism, analyzing a diverse array of real-world examples and case studies as well as comparative work. Our goal is to identify common patterns among skeptics and discern differences between various types of skeptics.

In this context, we will devote special attention to the intricate relationships between science and other spheres, such as the media, private companies and politics. We will discuss, in particular, how politics and science should and do interact within in the context of modern liberal democracies and examine the potential problems that may arise in this field of tension.

Moreover, we will closely examine specific aspects of the psychology underlying science skepticism. Themes covered include the role of cognitive and affective factors, such as scientific literacy, spirituality, and political ideology.

Ultimately, we seek to identify strategies for (re-)establishing faith in scientific expertise over the short-, medium-, and long-term. Most notably, we will evaluate the potential of engaging in dialogue with skeptics and what we at universities can do to foster trust in science.

Through a mix of input lectures by the instructor as well as invited guests, critical in-class discussions, collaborative group exercises, and individual homework, participants will acquire a profound understanding of science skepticism and its diverse manifestations. The course will also focus on enhancing participants' methodological skills, with a special emphasis on methods of data collection and analysis in a mixed-methods framework, and enable and encourage them ‘to do their own research’.

Based on their comprehensive knowledge and strengthened skillset, participants by the end of the course will be equipped to contribute to rational democratic discourse and promoting well-informed decision-making in various spheres of public life.

Art der Leistungskontrolle und erlaubte Hilfsmittel

Assessment will be based on the following the assignments:
• Active participation (10%)
• Reading quizzes (15%)
• Research outline (15%)
• Data collection/analysis (20%)
• Seminar paper (40%)

Participants will need to collect and/or analyze their own data for their seminar paper. As this course carries 12 ECTS credits, it is essential to allocate ample time for data collection and analysis, as this will necessitate individual preparation and work beyond classroom hours. Please be mindful of the additional commitment required to successfully complete the course and make the most of the learning experience.

Teamwork in the process of data collection/analysis and writing the seminar paper is permitted as the pooling of skills and knowledge can often facilitate a more comprehensive and insightful exploration of the subject matter. Please ensure, however, to document and specify the individual contributions of each group member and submit this documentation alongside the final paper to ensure fairness and transparency in the assessment of collaborative work.

Mindestanforderungen und Beurteilungsmaßstab

Attendance at the first session is necessary as students who miss the initial session are at risk of being deregistered from the course to accommodate those on the waiting list.

Apart from that, students are expected to attend at least 80% of all sessions and actively engage in all course activities.
It is strongly recommended to attend the instructor's office hours at least once during the course. This opportunity allows students to discuss their research outline and data strategy, gaining valuable feedback and guidance.

The submission of the seminar paper is mandatory. The paper will be evaluated based on the relevance of the research question, the clarity of the argument, the validity of the methods, the internal structure, and the quality of writing.

Plagiarism, inauthentic, or otherwise fraudulent work is strictly prohibited. Any such instances will result in the course not being assessed, indicated as an 'X' on the transcript. The plagiarism detection software 'Turnitin' will be utilized to ensure academic integrity. If necessary, the instructor may invite students to a ‘grade-relevant conversation’ about their submitted work.

Prüfungsstoff

Students will be assessed based on their depth of knowledge and understanding of the course subject, their proficiency in methodological skills, and their overall ability to independently conduct and effectively present their research findings in writing.

Literatur

To be announced.

Zuordnung im Vorlesungsverzeichnis

Letzte Änderung: Do 24.08.2023 15:27