Science and Technology Studies - Introduction

Science covers everything from the origin of the universe to the innermost workings of our brains.  Scientists are consulted by world leaders and law courts, advertisers and athletes.  Yet, while science tries to understand everything, how well do we understand science itself? How secure are the methods of science?  When, where and how did science originate as a distinct type of knowledge?  What accounts for the extraordinary success and diversity of science in the modern world?

History, Philosophy and Social Studies of Science (HPSSS) examines how science has developed historically, and the foundations on which its principles and methods are based. HPSSS also looks at science in its wider intellectual and cultural contexts, and asks how it is directed and funded by society, and how people get to learn about and influence the scientific enterprise.

The following option is available:

• History, Philosophy and Social Studies of Science

Providing students take at least two Science based subjects at A level or equivalent there are no specific subject requirements for the HPSSS Stream.For more information on the option courses offered by Science and Technology Studies please visit the Department for Science and Technology Studies website.