EV128/SO130/EV161-Introduction to Global Climate Change/Environmental Sociology
EV 128, Introduction to Global Climate Change, Howard Drossman
Fulfills one unit of Critical perspectives: Scientific Investigation
SO 130/EV 161, Environmental Sociology, Wade Roberts
The first block will be a mathematical and science-based introduction to the
contemporary Earth climate system and evidence of near-future changes, focusing
on the role of the atmosphere, oceans and land surface. This course includes
the use of mathematical models to describe complex systems. Fieldwork will
include measurements of carbon cycling and radiation balance. Field and laboratory
data analysis and an introduction into complex systems modeling will enhance
student analytical skills.
The second block provides an introduction to the sociological perspective
on environmental issues, focusing on the social, political, and institutional
factors that produce environmental disruption, shape the distribution of impacts,
and forestall mitigating reforms. The historical and contemporary forms, strategies,
and impacts of environmental movements are also considered.
Topics from both the linked classes will include the role of policy, economics
and ethics in mitigating the human impact. The two courses will include the
use of geospatial modeling and statistical analysis to explore patterns of
environmental inequality. Close reading of scientific articles and texts will
be used in a critical examination of popular and peer-reviewed literature.
The linked courses will include a substantial writing component consisting
of critical reviews of natural and social scientific literature on topics
relating to environmental justice and climate change research.
Block I and II satisfy requirements for the Integrated Environmental Science
and Environmental Policy majors but not towards the Environmental Chemistry
or Environmental Physics majors.
A set of linked one-block courses that must be taken together, with one instructor
in each block; separate grades will be given for each block.