A common assumption is that technologists draw on universal principles to create devices and systems that expand human knowledge and capabilities. However, knowledge exploration and production are deeply influenced by cultural ideas and ideologies. Technology is produced in ways that may reproduce harmful stereotypes or reinforce cultural inequities. Drawing on key theoretical texts and ethnographies, this course provides an introduction to the complex interactions between technology, culture, and society. Students will explore case studies from a wide range of fields including nuclear weaponry, pharmaceuticals, artificial life, nanotechnology, and human-machine cyborgs in order to recognize cultural influences on the development and impact of technological and scientific thinking. Of particular importance is developing critical thinking and analytical skills that will enable students to influence designs and policies on technoscience. Through seminar discussion, this course explores questions such as: How do we know what we know? How does our culture influence how we design technical products and processes? What inequities are produced from particular approaches and how might they be changed to encourage progress and social justice?

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