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The Moon Landings

History, Politics, and Social Responsibility in Science

By Melanie R. Nilsson

The Moon Landings


 

Abstract

This discussion-based, modular case study provides students an opportunity to examine historical, political, and social issues that impact scientists and the publics they serve. It was designed with flexibility in mind, and can be easily tailored depending on the level of the audience, time constraints, and instructor interest. The scientific theme of the case revolves around the manned moon landings, but the case does not cover any specific scientific content, although it could easily be incorporated. The case can be used to introduce science into a humanities or social science course, or to infuse societal elements into a science course, or to supplement traditional astronomy, astrobiology, or earth and space sciences courses. The teaching notes include discussion of optional visual and literary art works that can be introduced to provoke discussion and stimulate interest in the case content. Due to the unusually open-ended nature of the material, an answer key is not provided.

   

Date Posted

04/07/2020

Overview

Objectives

  • Explore how the historic context often sets the stage for scientific and technological endeavors.
  • Discuss the role of scientists, the general public, and politicians in determining how scientific priorities are established and funded.
  • Examine the extent to which the exclusion of specific groups of people from decision-making can lead to science and technology “advancements” that preferentially benefit some populations over others.
  • Consider how scientific objectivity may be impacted based on the funding sources or motivations for conducting the work.

Keywords

Moon; space exploration; Apollo missions; Operation Paperclip; scientific funding; objectivity; politics; race; Nazi; NASA; science funding; civil rights; social responsibility; art; music; STEM; STEAM

  

Subject Headings

Aerospace Engineering
Astronomy
Earth Science
Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Middle school, High school, Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Ethics, History of science, Policy issues, Regulatory issues, Science and the media, Social issues, Social justice issues

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

N/A, Analysis (Issues), Dilemma/Decision, Discussion

 

 

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