Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of human population growth; current directions of biotechnology; the implications of new biotechnologies for human health and ecosystems; new and resurgent diseases; research methods in carrying out an independent research study.
Synopsis This subject introduces students to the selective forces that are influencing the evolution of the human species at the present time and discusses the possible future evolution of humans. The topics to be covered include past, present, and possible future trends in human births, deaths, and population change; genetic engineering of humans and other species; the impact of new biotechnologies on human health and society; new and resurgent infectious diseases and world health. The subject is taught by lectures, tutorials, and a supervised library research study of a world health issue.
Assessment Two class assignments (1000 words): 40% + Independent research study (8000 words): 60%