HNR-209 - The Science of Sex & Sexuality

3 credits

Human sexuality has been taboo for many years in virtually all cultures. This course aims to peek under the sheets in the most intimate of settings. Through the use of anatomy, physiology, endocrinology, neuroscience, psychology, and sociology, we will delve into the difference between genetic XX and XY, the observable male vs. female, and the mental masculine vs. feminine. Do sex and gender equate? How does sexuality play into this? Can science explain what it means to be transgendered? This course will take us through the human journey starting with embryonic development of the genitalia, moving to the development of the male/female brain, through secondary sexual development during puberty, into development of sperm and egg, the mechanics of intercourse, and end with fertilization of the next generation.

Mass Transfer Block: Credits earned in this course are counted towards the MassTransfer Block Humanities and Fine Arts requirement.