What is science? What isn’t? Modern western science is a product of the Age of Reason in the 18th century, but its origins are traced back to the ancient Greeks. Skepticism and the scientific method are critical to modern scientific practice. Throughout history there has always been an uneasy relationship between science and culture. Science as a human activity is influenced by culture and vice versa. The seminar weaves science philosophy, methodology, and history with social and cultural contexts. “Culture wars” centered around heliocentrism, evolution, relativity, geneticallymodified organisms, and climate change are examined. A major part of the course is devoted to evaluating claims purporting to use “scientific” evidence. Topics include: vitamin C as a cold remedy, homeopathy, Social Darwinism and Eugenics, detoxification and cleansing methods, nutrient supplements and diets, drugs and the pharmaceutical industry, vaccinations and autism, cancer and electromagnetic fields, placentophagy, and hypnobirthing. Are there common strategies people use? The placebo effect and confirmation bias are discussed. You will have an opportunity to investigate a claim and present it to the class. The goal is to equip you with practical tools for making science informed decisions, and not simply accept a claim at face value; in other words, being a skeptic. The seminar concludes with a section on bioethics and social policy, using “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” as a resource.