This is a special topics course open to all Wesleyan students to explore subjects that are at the boundaries of the canonical scientific disciplines, that are complex, and that have paramount societal impact (e.g., pandemics and public health, climate change, the search for life in the universe, and artificial intelligence and automation). There are also societal issues that deeply impact and are vital for all the sciences (e.g., diversity, equity and inclusion of our communities, federal funding, and science policy). We will collectively identify one or two topics that we would like to focus on together as a class. With disciplinary humility, we will construct a syllabus that will include readings, classroom discussions, presentations, guest lectures, and writing that will integrate our knowledge, methodologies, and action across the sciences. This course is part of the CIS major, and it is expected that all senior CIS majors will be enrolled. |