Course Description
This class is an advanced introduction to human-environment interactions. Students will read several foundational texts in critical nature-society theory, political ecology, science studies, environmental justice, and environmental governance. We will also consider these theories in the context of several environmental issues, ranging from conservation, to climate change, to urbanization.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional readings, assignments, and written essays.
Athena Title
Political Ecol and Environ Gov
Prerequisite
GEOG 1101 or GEOG 1101E or GEOG 1103 or GEOG 1125 or GEOG 1125E or GEOG 1130 or GEOG 2010H or GEOG 2250H or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered springOffered every odd-numbered year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Successful completion of this course will provide the following learning outcomes: A basic understanding of socio-ecological processes that influence global patterns of environmental degradation, environmental justice, and neoliberal environmental governance. An understating of the ways that environmental governance operates within capitalist, neoliberal, patriarchal, colonial, heteronormative, and racialized contexts. An appreciation of the role of critical social theory in understanding various environmental narratives, including neo-liberal, feminist, critical race, and indigenous perspectives. A firm foundation from which to engage in a variety of types of research/practice situated at the intersection of social theory and nature from a critical thinking perspective. Communicate effectively through writing. This is met by a series of writing assignments associated with class readings and the student’s personal interests in the environment. Communicate effectively through speech. This is met by oral presentations, discussion leading, and classroom participation. Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and is developed through reading assignments, classroom discussion, and essay writing.
Topical Outline
Foundations in Social Theory of Nature Political Ecology and Science Studies Race and Nature De-colonial and Indigenous Natures Feminism and the Environment Environmental Justice Case Studies: Water, Climate Change, Urbanization, Housing, Conservation, Energy