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Hormesis and Life
Hormesis and Life
What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is a common saying that implies a positive response to external stress. Yet, beyond the rhetorics, this notion is grounded in scientific principles. The goal of this course is to first discuss the theoretical basis behind this effect, and then to explore the reach of this phenomenon across different disciplines. These include addressing the risk-benefits of medications and health supplements, the effects of exercise on the physical body, concept of immunity and others. Beyond that, we hope to generate a platform for a deep dialogue on the potential analogies of the concept in far-reaching domains such as sociology, psychology and even economics (antifragility). Through this, we hope to advocate the theories and practice of taking “calculated risk” in life situations.
Student Reviews
Anonymous AY24/25 Sem 2
About the Instructor
Prof is very knowledgeable about his own field of study (toxicology/biological sciences), but he is also very open about the challenge that this course poses to him when he extends the concept of hormesis to other disciplines (eg. economics, psychology). Personally I think he explains concepts really well, which is very important especially in the first few topics where the biological concepts can feel very technical. Prof is also very genuine and approachable.
Content (Structure/Organization)
The course was well structured, moving gradually from the narrow definition of hormesis and its applications in toxicology and biology, then extending the concept to new disciplines (eg. perfectionism, anti-fragility). The main theme of the course - the concept of hormesis - was emphasized throughout and in hope that we can apply this concept to other areas of our life as well.
There are clearly-defined learning outcomes for each chapter, but prof also has discussion questions where he is open to responses from students.
Manageability of Workload
This is definitely the most chill NUSC course I've done in my years here, requiring minimal time outside of class for preparation - even for the tutorials, prof allocates time at the start of the class for those who haven't done the tutorials to look through the readings and questions.
The most effort required for this course outside of class would be the group project.
Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades
I think it is pretty easy to get a decent grade, as long as we put in effort.
Learning Value/Recommendation
I think the concept of hormesis extended to other disciplines were quite relevant for me, since it is now a concept that we can ponder about in daily life. Personally, I thought some of the classes also served as an avenue for personal growth and reflection. For me, I would say the learning value of the course lies not so much in learning about the course content itself, but how the content allowed me to think back about my own experiences.
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