<p>Seminar, three hours. Behavior genetics is controversial and seeks genetic links to intelligence, personality, mental illness, and criminality, among many other traits. It explores differences between individuals, men and women, or racial groups, and what social policies might do about those differences. Analysis of causes and effects of controversy in behavior genetics using critical sociology and history. Consideration of scientific disputes between behavior geneticists and their critics, distinctive history and social organization of behavior genetics as group of scientists, and public reception of behavior genetics and disputes about its social and policy implications. Letter grading.</p>

Society and Genetics

Combining rigorous, inclusive pedagogy with opportunities for co-curricular activities—including research, internships, and community engagement—the College provides students with diverse learning experiences that helps them thrive, become critical thinkers, and transform society.

College of Letters and Science

The institute offers a rigorous interdisciplinary education at the intersection of human biology, genetics, and society, bridging the institutional divide between life and human sciences.

General Catalog

Controversy and Behavior Genetics

SOC GEN 161

4 units