This course investigates the impact of technological advances on contemporary understandings (and lived experiences) of identity and the body, with a focus on biomedicine. There will be three major case studies: reproductive technologies, psychopharmacology (including new drugs for depression and behavioural disorders) and body modification (cosmetic surgery and gender realignment).

Linking the case studies will be three central themes: 1) how technology is implicated in both reproducing and destabilising dominant models of sex, gender and identity; 2) how dominant understandings of gender and sexual difference influence the development of technology; 3) how technology is utilised and appropriated by users, often in ways contrary to intended uses. The course will examine these issues by drawing on feminist and other critical accounts of technology from the fields of science and technology studies and cultural studies.

Short responses papers (3) and a research project. Tutorial participation.

Normally offered in alternate years
1x1.5 hour lecture for 13 weeks and 11 one-hour tutorials. Lectures will be taped.

At least one of GEND1001, GEND1002, ENGL1011 or permission from the coordinator.

* Hopkins, Patrick (1998) The Intersection of Culture, Gender and Technology in P. Hopkins (ed.) Sex/Machine: Readings in Culture, Gender and Technology, Bloomington: Indiana University Press.
* Stabile, Carol (1997) Feminism and the Technological Fix in S. Kemp & J. Squires (eds) Feminisms, Oxford: Oxford University Press.