SOC 285 Environmental Sociology

The relationship between humans and the non-human environment is complex and problematic. We are part of and dependent upon the natural environment even while altering that environment for our own needs and purposes. As a way of broadly thinking about these interactions we will address the social causes consequences and responses to environmental disruption. By the end of the course you will be more adept at understanding how societal characteristics -- including cultures traditions beliefs values institutions and the like -- combine with environmental conditions to shape the impact that people have on their environments.