History of Science and Politics

This course will examine how the conduct of science has developed in the context of the modern history of science in Japan, including its links to society and policy.

While science has enriched our lives, some of its applications have also caused serious problems that directly affect human survival, such as pollution and nuclear power plants. What are the historical contexts of these issues? What related challenges may we face in the future? By addressing these questions, we will consider the ideal relationship between science and society.

History of science, science policy, science and politics, science and democracy, science and justice, social history of science, STS

1) Introduction: Why study the history of science and politics?
2) What is science? (1): Knowledge in Ancient Greece
3) What is science? (2): Knowledge in the middle ages and modern times
4) Institutionalization of science (1): Science and university education
5) Institutionalization of science (2): World War I and science
6) Systematization of science: World War II and science
7) Post-institutionalization of science (1): The Cold War and science
8) Post-institutionalization of science (2): The era of scientific criticism
9) Problems concerning science and human survival (1): Pollution issues
10) Problems concerning science and human survival (2): Leprosy
11) Problems concerning science and human survival (3): Nuclear power issues
12) Seeking norms to control science (1): Democratic control
13) Seeking norms to control science (2): Science journalism
14) Seeking norms to control science (3): Judicial control
15) Thinking about the future of science and society/Course survey

Syllabus (Japanese site only)