Cornell University Announces 'Alien Empire: Bizarre Biology of Bugs' Course for Spring 2027
Cornell University's Department of Entomology has announced a new course for Spring 2027 titled 'ENTOM 2011: Alien Empire: Bizarre Biology of Bugs.' This 3-credit course, which can be taken for letter or S/U grades, will explore the diverse and often unusual biology of insects and their interactions with humans. The curriculum will cover both the detrimental roles of insects, such as pests and disease vectors, and their beneficial contributions, including pollination, edible insects, and products like wax, dyes, and silk. The course will also delve into the symbolic representation of insects in art, literature, and religion. It is designed for non-life sciences majors and will include small group discussions, debates, demonstrations, and documentary films. The instructors for the course are L. Guzman Uribe and B. Willink Castro.