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The University of Edinburgh: Science and Technology in Society

Institution The University of Edinburgh View institution profile
Department School of Social and Political Science
Web https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying
Study type Taught

Summary

The MSc Science and Technology in Society offers a comprehensive introduction to the field of science and technology studies (STS), and is intended for students wishing to develop a theoretical and practical understanding of the interplay between science and society.

The scientific and technological nature of our societies is, unquestionably, one of their most salient characteristics. Science and technology are with us, human (and other) beings, every moment of the day, every day of our lives, and even when life turns into death. But why exactly do science and technology (and innovation) exert such influence over humans and their doings? Where does such power come from? In short: what makes them special? On the other side, is it correct to assume that societies and social actors are powerless in the face of scientific and technological developments? Are there grounds to question who is or should be ‘an expert’? Why do governments (and some international organisations) seek to regulate science and scientific advancements? Why have public engagement with scientific innovations, patient groups’ involvement in medical and healthcare developments, and demands for responsible innovation become so prominent in recent years?

These are some of the questions which underlie our programme. Students will be given the chance to explore them in a variety of contexts and through the lenses of different theoretical and analytical traditions.

Why Edinburgh?

STS is a well-established area within the social sciences; STIS (Science, Technology and Innovation Studies) is the department of the School of Social and Political Science that hosts one of the leading international centres of interdisciplinary research and teaching in science, technology and innovation studies. You will be studying as part of a vibrant community of scholars with over fifty years of international leadership within the field.

Who this programme is for

We welcome students from a range of disciplinary backgrounds with a keen interest in the complex and rapidly evolving relationships between science, technology and society. While this programme is primarily suited for those with some background in the social sciences, history and the humanities, we have students from a wide range of backgrounds. Our students are united by a desire to critically understand and reflect on science and technology in their social contexts.

You should be aware that this is a social science programme and that good writing skills displaying reflection, insight and analytical ability will be required. You will be asked to read a significant quantity of complex texts on a weekly basis in order to engage in class debates and coursework. You will also need to write lengthy essays and a dissertation.

Topics

In Semester 1 of the programme, you will be introduced to key theories and contemporary academic debates in the field, including:

  • the sociology and social history of science and technology

  • innovation policy and management

  • the role of scientific expertise in policy making

  • science and technology for international development

In Semester 2, and during your dissertation research, you will be able to call on the expertise of our highly regarded academic staff. They will guide you in the application of your knowledge to address key societal issues and challenges. Depending on your interests, this work might relate to:

  • Energy and Environment

  • Life Sciences and Bioeconomy

  • Data and Society

MSc

Edinburgh. Extraordinary futures await.

The University of Edinburgh is one of the world's top universities, consistently ranked in the world top 50, and placed 22nd in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.

Our position as one of Britain’s leading research universities was reaffirmed by the results of the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF). The University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, ranked 4th in the UK for research power (Times Higher Education, Overall Ranking of Institutions), with 90% of our research activity classified as world leading or internationally excellent in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

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