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Biotech Ethics
SCRB 120

Jointly Offered with: Faculty of Arts & Sciences as GOV 1090

Course Information

Description

This course examines the ethical challenges posed by technological advancements in healthcare and biotechnology, addressing their impact on personal ethical conduct and public policy-making. It begins with an introduction to key ethical theories and their application to biotech dilemmas. Students then analyze case studies, exploring real-world ethical issues faced by biomedical companies and research institutions, emphasizing the effects of emerging technologies on public health, individual rights, and social justice. The course concludes with students collaborating to create ethical frameworks for decision-making in biotech policy.

Course Notes

Previous experience in biology and economics is helpful but not necessary. May not be taken concurrently with Gov 1090. May not be taken for credit if Gov 1090 has already been taken. The course is open to both science and nonscience concentrators.

School Faculty of Arts & Sciences
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Course Component Lecture
Grading Basis FAS Letter Graded
Course Requirements Anti-requisite: Cannot be taken for credit if GOV 1090 already complete.
Exam/Final Deadline May 8, 2026
General Education N/A
Quantitative Reasoning with Data N/A
Divisional Distribution Science & Engineering & Applied Science
Course Level N/A