Welcome to Science Court!
Science Court is a project designed to combat polarization in American society and strengthen democracy. It is run as an interdisciplinary course in the University of Minnesota Honors Program involving students from across the university. The students select a controversial issue and spend an entire semester studying it in depth to determine the facts (based on sound scientific research) and then argue it in a mock trial in front of a jury of citizens with a mix of views and backgrounds. The public is engaged through compelling audio, video and online content generated by the students about the preparations, trial and verdict. The trial is free and open to the public.
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What is Science Court?
Science Court is more than just a class, it’s a tool for social change. Listen to Episode 1 of our Podcast "What is SciCourt" by Luke Diamond:
We live in a time filled with polarization and distrust. SciCourt is a new honors course offered at the University of Minnesota attempting to create a place where debate on controversial issues is based on facts and where a decision on the issue is guaranteed. To achieve this goal, SciCourt takes on the form of a mock trial with a few key changes.
Why I took this class
Science Court (HSEM 3511H) is an Honors Seminar offered through the University of Minnesota Honors Program. Meet the students through the short videos below on why they're taking the class.