Spring 1997 Global Human Ecology:
America, the Environment, and the Global Economy
Sociology 1002
Course Description: This course examines the debate over global development and the emerging global economy. Is our global capitalist society destroying itself by waging war against the Earth? Is global development threatening the survival of future generations? Can we create an environmentally sustainable global society that preserves the Earth for future generations? What role should Americans play in helping to save the planet? The larger goal of this course is to understand how the choices we make in the present shape the future of modern industrial civilization. Do we really desire the future our present actions are creating?
Course Objective: The larger goal of this course is to teach you how to critically analyze, evaluate, and judge competing perspectives on the environment and development. If you disagree with an argument or perspective, or find it biased or limited, then say so. If you find the reading difficult, confused, or pointless, then say so. But, in each case, you must be prepared to support your argument and larger conclusions.
Required Reading: Wendell Berry, Sex, Economy, Freedom, and Community Michael Crichton, Jurassic Park Edward Goldsmith et al., eds., The Future of Progress Paul Hawken, The Ecology of Commerce David Orr, Ecological Literacy Vandana Shiva, ed., Close to Home