Fall 2023 Courses
Registration is now open! We meet every Saturday in-person at the USC campus throughout 8 weeks and conclude the semester with a final project presentation during the SI Fair.
Fall 2023 Semester: September 23rd - November 11th
We accept applications on a rolling basis! Don't hesitate to register now.
If neuroscientists develop a drug to erase negative memories for trauma patients, should it be prescribed to the general public as well? If researchers find that specific areas of the brain activate when we show empathy to others, should the government use this information to develop army training programs to promote detachment for overly empathetic soldiers? Very much like any ethical issue a scientist must be mindful of while conducting research, many critical neuroethical issues face neuroscientists today. Since the brain is the central organ of the human body–home to consciousness, decision-making, homeostasis, and more–there are certain ethical issues that ask for special considerations. Throughout this course, we will go over the central nervous system (CNS) and discuss fundamental neuroethical questions. After working through an overview of the brain’s structure and function, students will choose a neuroethical question they would like to explore. The class will focus on better understanding current claims, research, and evidence related to these topics and support students as they develop their own stances on the most controversial neuroethical issues shaping tomorrow.
01
Introduction to Neuroethics
Taught by Gaon Kim
1st Period (9:30 AM - 11:00 AM)
02
Fiction or Fact? Literature as a Form of Social Commentary
Taught by Fatima Alyousefi
2nd Period (11:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Are fiction books really fictional? A lot of the fiction books that we read seem like frivolous stories about heroes and villains, with some voodoo or cyborg aliens sprinkled in there. However, in reality, many of the most well-known fictional stories that exist are enlightening pieces that provide deep insight into some of the biggest social issues facing humanity. For example, Harry Potter is a well-known children’s book that explores silly stories about wizards and their magic. However, a deeper exploration of the book shows that the Wizarding World parallels many of the social ills of our time period and world too. For instance, the concept of “Pure-blood Supremacy” under Voldemort’s regime (the character was actually based off of Hitler) has racial undertones and is reflective of notions of white supremacy and ethnic cleansing within our world. So, while on the surface, such books seem to describe purely imaginary events and people, in reality, they are insightful commentaries on significant, real-world social issues. Throughout the course, we will explore and dissect various books of different genres and time periods.
No prior knowledge of any of the books discussed in this course is required - if you enjoy stories and talking about social issues, then this is the course for you! Come to class ready to discuss and have your minds blown by the true social contexts behind some of the world’s most renowned books!
We'll be exploring mixed media forms of art outside of traditional drawing and painting. We will be weaving, working with clay, watercoloring with salt/rubbing alcohol, and block printing. No art experience required.
03
Art Time! Mix Media Studio
Taught by Cat Broderick
3rd Period (11:00 AM - 12:30 PM)